The mother of a new-born baby girl whose body was discovered at a waste recycling plant was being sought by police last night.

The girl’s naked body was found at the Associated Waste Management (AWM) site in Valley Road, Shipley, early yesterday.

The discovery – understood to have been in a bin liner – was made by a worker who was operating a rubbish filtering and separating machine at the recycling centre.

At a press conference, Detective Superintendent Sukhbir Singh, who is leading the investigation, made an urgent plea to find the child’s mother.

He said: “We have genuine concerns for the health and welfare of the mother of this young baby. Our over-riding priority at the moment is to find her and ensure her safety.

“She may well be in need of medical attention herself and I would urge her to contact us as a matter of urgency.”

Det Supt Singh, of West Yorkshire Police Homicide and Major Enquiry Team (HMET), said the investigation was initially centring on Bradford, although the site also processes waste from Leeds.

Detectives were checking the records of AWM and Bradford Council to find out which collection rounds had reached the centre before the “distressing” discovery, he said.

A fingertip search was yesterday being carried out near the area where the baby’s body was found as police stood guard outside the large metal gates of the waste plant.

A post-mortem examination was being carried out last night to try to establish the cause of the baby’s death.

Bradford Council leader Ian Greenwood, said: “It is very shocking and extremely upsetting that the body of a new-born baby has been found.

“This is a human tragedy by any measure.

“Obviously we have serious concerns for the health and welfare of the mother.

“We would urge the mother or anyone who may have information to contact the police immediately.”

People who live near AWM also spoke of their shock and sadness at the tragedy.

Mother-of-three Samantha McIntyre, 36, said: “It is so sad that this baby has died but it is also very sad for the mother.

“She obviously felt she had nowhere to turn.”

Sarah Bussey, 31, of Beamsley Road, Frizinghall, said: “It could have been any young girl and nobody can say what she is feeling right now.

“I don’t think people should judge her.”

AWM said it did not want to comment on the matter while police investigations were continuing.

Police have urged anyone with information about the mother’s identity to contact Detective Sergeant Ian Lawrie on 0845 6060 606.

  • Read the full story in Friday's T&A