CCTV could hold a vital clue in a police probe into claims a baby was neglected by a customer at an Adsa supermarket Hampshire.

The investigation comes  after worried shoppers raised the alarm claiming the infant was being “manhandled”.

Witnesses said the baby was “thrown” into its pram and hit its head while in Asda in Totton.

The incident took place in the McDonalds restaurant area of the supermarket.

Now supermarket bosses say police will have full access to CCTV cameras in the store for their investigation.

Daily Echo:

It was launched after customers in the store became so concerned by what they had seen they  called the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).

 The child welfare charity then called in Hampshire Police.

Both the fast food company and the store said they would release any CCTV footage of the incident to police.

One witness who claimed to see the drama said it involved a six to eight week-old baby.

The woman said it appeared the child was with a female relative and was being shouted at and “manhandling”.

The witness claimed she saw her “practically throw” the baby into its carrier which resulted in it hitting its head on the way in.

It is claimed the woman then ignored the baby's cries, and carried on eating a burger.

She said it happened on February 23, between 3.50pm and 5pm.

A statement from Hampshire Police, said: “We received a report from the NSPCC after they were contacted by a member of the public who witnessed what she regarded as a woman neglecting a baby in McDonalds in Asda, Totton.

“The matter in being looked in to.”

The restaurant is managed by ASDA but McDonalds confirmed they are working with the store to ensure police have access to CCTV for any investigation.

A McDondalds spokesman would not be drawn on the details of the incident but told the Daily Echo: “We are aware of the incident and are supporting police with their inquiries.”

Meanwhile ASDA also said they are also assisting police with enquiries, including the hand-over of any CCTV footage.

Head of NSPCC child protection operations John Cameron said they could not comment on the specific incident.

But he confirmed that their helpline did make a referral to Hampshire Police Force.

Mt Cameron also urged anyone worried about a child, even if they are unsure, to contact the NSPCC's helpline (24/7) for help, advice and support on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk