Baby discovered in Heywood named Pearl by detectives

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Detectives investigating the discovery of the body of a baby girl in Heywood have named her Pearl.

At around 7.10am on Wednesday 4 April 2018, police were alerted to the body of a baby in woodland near Peel Lane, Heywood, near to the old rubbish tip site.

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/117717/newborn-babys-body-found-in-heywood-field

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/117717/newborn-babys-body-found-in-heywood-field

Officers investigating the incident have chosen to name the baby girl Pearl.

Despite extensive enquiries by officers the parents of the child have still not been identified. Pearl's DNA has been obtained and officers are focusing their investigation on Heywood.

Forensic testing has confirmed that the girl is most likely to be Caucasian but mixed heritage cannot be ruled out. No evidence has been found that indicates she was born at the spot where she was discovered.

Detective Chief Inspector Lewis Hughes, from GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “This is a truly heart-breaking case for all involved and I know everyone from officers, to paramedics and the public have felt the impact of this.

"We felt it was only right to name the baby girl as it is important that she is given an identity. We also felt that the name had an appropriate meaning, every child is precious and Pearl is no different.

"There are so many different elements to this investigation and it has been painstaking trying to piece together the limited details we have. 

"We need more information if we are to find out what has happened to baby Pearl and this is where we need the public to help us.

"We are aware of the interest this tragic case has gained locally and we are appealing to the public to assist with providing the missing information that we vitally need.

"I want to assure you that we will provide updates when we can; the most important thing for us is finding the truth for this little girl and I think that is something everyone can agree on.

"We won’t forget about baby Pearl and the investigation into what happened to her will continue. It is our responsibility to find the answers and we will do everything we can to do just that.

"I believe someone somewhere knows who the parents are and they may be reluctant to come forward. I implore you please, if you have heard anything, seen anything or know anything – even if it is the tiniest detail – please just let us know.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4810 or 07387 705768 quoting incident number 368 of 04/04/18. Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.