THE sad discovery of a baby’s body in a canal in Walsall is now being treated as murder.

The newborn baby boy, who was believed to be full-term, was discovered by a passer-by in Rough Wood Country Park, off Hunts Lane in Willenhall, at around 1pm on Thursday May 20.

It is believed the baby may have been in the water for up to four days.

There is mounting concern for the welfare of the mother and police are urging anyone with information about what happened to speak up.

A reward of up to £5,000 for information is also being offered by Crimestoppers - for details the charity exclusively receives that lead to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for offences, including murder, linked to the death of the baby.

Information can be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or on the charity's website.