The death of a newborn baby boy found in a private garden in Weston-Super-Mare is now being treated as a potential homicide.

A man and woman have both been arrested in connection with the investigation and remain in custody for questioning.

Avon and Somerset's Major Crime Investigation Team is carrying out an investigation into the death of the newborn baby boy in Weston-super-Mare.

The body was found by a member of the public in the private garden on Saturday morning.

Police launched an appeal on Saturday to find the baby's mother following the discovery of the infant.

A woman believed to be the mother was located and removed to hospital to receive medical attention.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector James Riccio said: “Due to significant developments in this investigation, I can confirm we’re now treating the baby’s death as a potential homicide.

“A forensic post-mortem examination will be held later this week but we don’t anticipate any conclusive results for some time.

“I know this development will cause concern in the local community, particularly in light of the tragic circumstances, but I would stress that while this is being treated as a potential homicide, we are keeping an open mind and will always be led by the evidence.

“We’ve been heartened by the wholly supportive response from the Weston-super-Mare community over the past two days.

"Our neighbourhood team will be carrying out additional reassurance patrols of the affected area, so please stop an officer and speak to them if you have any worries or questions. We are here to help.”

If anyone has information which could help with the investigation, please call us on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5220278654.