Police have launched an urgent search after a new mum went missing from a UK hospital shortly after giving birth. The Metropolitan Police said they are concerned for the welfare of the woman who left a hospital in Romford

Officers were called at around 5pm on Tuesday (December 30) to reports that she had left the hospital. The baby remains in the hospital under the care of staff and is in good health. The woman, in her 20s, and is of slim build, dark-haired. She was last seen wearing a light coloured top and patterned skirt. The Met said officers are "increasingly concerned" for the woman's welfare and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Inspector Neil Godwin, who is leading the investigation for the Met, said: "This woman has just given birth and, because of this, she is extremely vulnerable.

"This is not a criminal investigation - we need to locate her to make sure she is OK.

"It is extremely important that if you know, or have any information about the whereabouts of this woman, that you tell us so we can ensure she gets the right support."

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting reference CAD3892/30Dec.