Detectives who are trying to trace the mother of an abandoned baby in Hackney have released images of the newborn in a bid to locate her.

Police are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of the mother of a newborn baby who was found abandoned on a doorstep in Hackney on Saturday, 25 January.

Detectives are urging the mother to come forward so that she can receive medical care and support.

Officers were called by a member of the public at approximately 11:40hrs on Saturday, 25 January to Sandringham Road, E8, following reports of an abandoned baby boy. He was taken to an east London hospital by the London Ambulance Service where he remains safe and well.

The baby has been named Edward by hospital staff, after the member of public – a postman- who found him.

Baby Edward was found wearing a grey babygrow and a grey hat. He was also wrapped up in a white knitted blanket.

Following initial enquiries, it appears that Baby Edward was born outside of a hospital environment.

Baby Edward had also been fed and was left in an open place rather than somewhere secluded.

A number of enquiries have been carried out by officers including speaking to rough sleepers in the area, reviewing CCTV and ANPR work. Specialist units have also been employed to search the area.

Anyone with information is urged to call the police on 101 quoting Cad 3039/25Jan or stay anonymous by contacting the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.