Body of baby girl found in Leeds pub toilet

Investigations are continuing into the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the baby's body, police say

The body of a baby girl has been found in a West Yorkshire pub toilet, police have confirmed.

Emergency crews were called to the Three Horse Shoes pub in Oulton, near Rothwell, at about 16:45 GMT on Sunday.

Police described it as a "traumatic incident" and urged the newborn's mother to seek "urgent" medical help.

Det Ch Insp James Entwistle, from West Yorkshire Police, said: "We are urgently appealing for the mother of the baby girl to contact us."

He added that the mother "could well need treatment herself".

The body of the newborn was discovered on Sunday afternoon, police say

In a post on social media, a spokesperson for the pub wrote: "All I can say at the minute is, I'm sorry to everyone that was in with us during the time this happened and to all that was due to come in and couldn't.

"A massive thank you to those that helped us while we were struggling as a team.

"It really doesn't go unappreciated."

West Yorkshire Police said a "full investigation" into the circumstances surrounding the discovery was ongoing on Monday, with assistance from the NHS.

Det Ch Insp Entwistle said: "Our main priority remains the mother's welfare and safety."

He said she could contact police on 101 or via the force's website.

"If she doesn't want to speak to the police, she can contact the Leeds Maternity Assessment Unit on 0113 3926731," he added.

Police say their "main priority" following the discovery is the welfare of the baby's mother

At the scene: Emma Glasbey, Correspondent, BBC Yorkshire

A single police car sits outside the Three Horse Shoes pub on a busy dual carriageway in Oulton.

Reporters have started gathering nearby in the rain.

The lights are on inside the pub, but there are no other signs of activity inside yet.

It will no doubt be a very difficult day for the staff after the tragic discovery here on Sunday afternoon.

Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Conservative MP for Elmet and Rothwell, said his thoughts were with all those involved.

He added: "I would urge people not to jump to conclusions at this stage.

"The priority is finding the mother as quickly as possible and getting her the support she needs."

Mr Shelbrooke urged anyone with information to come forward.

'Sad death'

Rothwell Liberal Democrat councillors Conrad Hart-Brooke, Diane Chapman and Stewart Golton said that they shared in the "shock and sadness of this tragic event".

In a joint statement, they said: "Our local community is a strong one and many of us may know people directly or indirectly affected by this sad death.

"Right now, what matters is that the people directly affected get the support they need, especially the mother."

They also called for people to avoid speculating on social media, saying that for those affected "seeing unsubstantiated rumours will not help them or anyone at this time".