Baby's body released for burial

Baby Lilly's body was found by the River Alne

The body of a baby, who had suffered serious injuries and was left by a river, has been released for burial.

Baby Lilly, as she was called by Warwickshire Police, was discovered in a plastic bag by the River Alne in Aston Cantlow, on 11 May.

Post-mortem examinations showed she had suffered several injuries including a fractured skull and collarbone.

Police said an investigation into her unlawful killing continued and they were anxious to find Lilly's mother.

"The primary line of investigation is to identify mum and forensics are an important part of that investigation," Det Insp Debra Tedds said.

Lilly's injuries are not thought to have been caused at birth.

Coroner Michael Coker said he hoped she could rest with the dignity she did not have in her short life.

This is a little girl who was not treated with any respect Warwickshire Coroner Michael Coker

The Warwickshire coroner told an inquest at Leamington Spa Town Hall, that at least two undertakers had indicated they were prepared to deal with funeral arrangements for free and that a priest had indicated he would be happy to deal with her burial.

He said: "I'm very pleased about this because this is a little girl who was not treated with any respect but at least can be put to rest with a dignity that otherwise she did not receive in her short life."

Members of the public who have been affected by Lilly's death are expected to be invited to the funeral, details of which should be released soon.

A recent television appeal to find Lilly's mother resulted in only a "handful" of calls.