Appeal over dead baby discovery

The forest area where the baby's body was found

The mother of a baby whose body was found in County Down seven years ago has been urged to come forward.

Police investigating the death of the newborn boy, named Stewart by officers, said they wanted to help her come to terms with the tragedy.

Stewart was found in a grave on 6 October 2000 in a wooded area known as the Old Gasworks off the Portaferry Road between Newtownards and Greyabbey.

Police have not yet established the circumstances surrounding his death.

The officer leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Brian Murphy, launched a fresh appeal for information and said he appreciated the emotional turmoil Stewart's mother must have gone through.

'Lively'

"I have great sympathy for the dilemma she clearly found herself in," he said.

"Had baby Stewart survived he would have been a lively seven-year-old child in Primary Three with a year's new learning in front of him and a happy period of play with his friends.

"I am appealing for Stewart's mum to come forward and help me lay him to rest by clearing up the circumstances surrounding these tragic events.

"It may be she confided with friends or family. I would also ask that, if this is the case, then they, too, can come and speak to me and together we can bring this sad event to a conclusion."

A memorial has been erected near where the baby's body was found and a tree planted to mark his short life.

DCI Murphy said he believed Stewart's mum was still suffering grief and despair at the situation she found herself in.

"I would want to provide her with any help she needs to come to terms with what happened," he said.

"I would also welcome any contact with Stewart's father - although I acknowledge that he may have been completely unaware of the fact that Stewart had been born.

"I would like to reassure Stewart's mum that she will be treated with compassion and understanding and any support she requires will be provided to ensure her wellbeing."

The PSNI has asked anyone with any information about Stewart to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.