POLICE admit they have drawn a blank in their search for the parents of a newborn baby found abandoned in a plastic bag, a court heard.

An inquest will now be held into her death after Bolton Coroner’s Court was given an update from detectives on the case.

The baby, who police named Alia, was found by dog walkers in Ox Hey Lane, Lostock, on March 14 last year.

But at a pre-inquest review today, lead investigator Det Insp Aaron Duggan, revealed that they had been unable to match anyone with DNA samples from the infant.

He told coroner Alan Walsh that “all possible investigations” had been completed without reaching a successful conclusion.

Mr Walsh listed an inquest hearing to be held on November 11, but stressed that he is still keen to know more about the baby and her family.

He said: “If there is any member of the public with information in their possession, it would be in the best interests of everybody for that information to be passed to the Greater Manchester Police.”

Det Insp Duggan said there was less concern about the mother’s physical condition after so long.

But he said officers still have fears for her mental wellbeing and want to ensure she gets the support she might need.

He said: “The team was determined to establish what happened to the infant, but the main concern was for the mum.”

As part of the wide ranging investigation into Alia’s death, officers trawled DNA databases in the search for possible matches and traced dozens of people who bought the same Flora and Fauna Tesco shirt she was found wrapped in.

The search went nationwide but Det Insp Duggan believes that the remote location where the baby was left means whoever took her there knew the area.

He said: “I am still convinced the answer lies locally.”

He added that the case would never be formally closed.

Anyone with information should call 0161 856 5448 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.