POLICE investigating the death of a baby boy, whose body was found in a Gwent canal, have called in psychology experts.

The body was found in a green holdall on a bank of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal at Newbridge, on Friday. He had been dead for about five weeks.

The baby's mother has not got in touch with officers, despite an appeal from the officer heading the inquiry, Detective Chief Inspector Andy Williams.

Now officers are to liaise with the National Crime Faculty, which provides specialists in psychology, forensic science and other areas to assist officers with major investigations. Psychologists will help police build a picture of the mother's state of mind and behaviour, using previous similar incidents, in a bid to help them understand why she may have left the baby, and how she is feeling.

The baby remains unidentified and a post-mortem examination proved inconclusive. Further tests are taking place.

Last night police said they have received a number of calls from the public. They are appealing both for the mother, and two teenage girls seen in the area four to five weeks ago, to get in touch.

The girls were aged 14-16 and one had shoulder-length blonde hair and was wearing a red and navy sports top.

She appeared upset and was being comforted by a second girl. The blonde girl was also seen walking alone in the same area on a number of occasions at around 8 to 8.30am.

Mr Williams stressed that they were not in any trouble but needed to be eliminated from the inquiry.

Contact the incident room on 01495 320309.