Police launch appeal after 'human placenta' found

Police have launched an appeal after an ice cream tub believed to contain human placenta was found by a dog walker.

The discovery was made on a footpath near Tooting Bec Athletics Track in south London at about 6:55am, Scotland Yard said.

The dog walker initially thought they had found a human organ in the container, which police believe was partially buried before being unearthed by an animal.

Medical staff who examined photographs of the ice cream tub's contents suggested it is human placenta, which could be two weeks old.

Police said it raises concerns that there may be a vulnerable new mother who has given birth and may require medical assistance.

Chief Inspector Nick Aldworth said, "We are appealing to the person who buried the item to contact us, or anyone who knows the person who buried the item. Your call will be treated in the strictest of confidence".