A BABY girl who was found dumped in Lostock has been named Alia, meaning beautiful.

The newborn was found a week ago in Ox Hey Lane by a couple walking their dog.

The girl was wrapped in clothing and plastic bags and a message requesting she receive an Islamic burial.

After discussions with the Bolton Council of Mosques, detectives have named her Alia.

Officers still do not know the baby’s cause of death, her age, or her ethnicity and further tests are being carried out.

A mobile police station will be in Ox Hey Lane between 7am and 7pm today. Ch Insp Carol Martin said: “This is obviously an extremely upsetting case to investigate and many officers involved are themselves parents and so they wanted to give her a name.

“While we still do not know her ethnicity, due to the message left at the scene and following discussions with representatives from BCOM, she has been named Alia.

“It has been a week since Alia’s body was found and we remain deeply concerned about the emotional and physical state of her parents, in particular her mother who is likely to require medical attention.

“Our main priority is to find her family and I would encourage either parent to pick up the phone and call us. If you do not feel able to do so, please ask a family member or friend to on your behalf.”

Police have also appealed to friends, family or confidantes of the parents to come forward.

Ch Insp Martin said: “Our concern above everything else is for the parents’ welfare and by contacting us you may help them get the support they need from services that are on hand and waiting to assist.

“We will have officers at the scene throughout the day and if anyone has any concerns or wants to pass on any information please come and talk to us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 5448 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.