POLICE have launched an investigation after finding a bag and blanket following reports a baby had been left by the side of a road.

Officers received information late last night that a girl had given birth and then left the baby wrapped in a blanket in a bag by the side of Rochdale Road in Edenfield, Lancashire.

The location was relatively secluded near to the top of ‘Owd Betts’ on the outskirts of Rochdale.

When officers arrived they discovered the bag and blanket containing an amount of blood. Both the bag and the blanket will be examined by forensic experts later today.

Enquiries were carried out throughout the night.

Supt Steve Pemberton from Burnley Police said: "At this early stage we haven’t established what was in the bag but urgent tests will be carried out throughout the day.

"The information we have is that a girl has given birth, leaving the baby at the location. The girl is described to have been highly distressed and we are extremely concerned for her and the baby’s safety.

“I would appeal direct to the girl to come forward. It could well be that she is hurt and in need of medical care.

"Although we can’t imagine what she is going through, there is plenty of help and support available to her. We would ask her to get in touch and I offer reassurance that our main concern in this enquiry is her welfare.”

Anyone with information should contact Lancashire Police on 01282 425001 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.