The body of a newborn baby has been found in the Grand Union Canal in London.

The Metropolitan Police said officers and paramedics were called to the section of the canal near Old Oak Lane in the north west of the city at just before 1.20pm on Sunday.

The baby was pronounced dead at the scene.

Cordons are in place and an investigation is under way to establish the circumstances.

Police are urging the baby’s mother to seek medical assistance by dialling 999.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference 3589/09.