A senior coroner has stated that public bodies require scrutiny following the death of murdered adopted baby Preston Davey, as a hearing into the case took place on Monday.
Coroner's Indication of Inquest
Alan Wilson, senior coroner for Blackpool and Fylde, told Blackpool Coroner's Court that it is “highly likely” he will hold an inquest into the death of the 13-month-old, though no final decision was made. The child was murdered by former high school teacher Jamie Varley, 37, during a sex attack on July 27, 2023.
Varley had adopted Preston with his partner, former public schoolboy John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, just four months before the youngster's death. The couple treated the child as their “plaything,” subjecting him to “unremitting abuse” including sexual assaults and physical attacks at their Blackpool home.
Criminal Convictions
Varley, described as “evil” and a “sadist” by detectives, received a whole life term for murder and 24 other offences after an eight-week trial ending in June. His co-defendant McGowan-Fazakerley was jailed for 25 years.
Preston had been taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital three times before his death and was seen by a “battery of professionals” including medical staff, social workers, and welfare officers from various bodies.
Considerations for Inquest
Mr. Wilson noted that an inquest was initially opened shortly after Preston's death but was suspended during the police investigation and subsequent criminal trial. He acknowledged that “relevant issues” had already been heard during the eight-week trial but emphasized the need for further scrutiny.
“I feel there's sufficient reason to resume. There are acts and omissions of public authorities that need to be scrutinized in a public hearing in which Preston's family can participate,” Mr. Wilson said. “It's clearly going to be a wide-ranging inquiry.”
The coroner added that while there have been calls for a public inquiry, his role limits him to deciding whether to hold an inquest.
Reviews and Timeline
The court heard that the Oldham Safeguarding Children's Partnership has resumed a review into Preston's death, following its suspension for the criminal trial. This review is expected to be completed by January 2027, and the inquest cannot be held before then.
Much of the hearing focused on which individuals or public bodies should be legally represented at any inquest. These include Preston's biological mother and grandmother, Sara and Debbie Davey, who were represented by lawyers but not present at the hearing.
Background on Adoption
Preston was born while his mother was in custody, and a place in a mother and baby unit in prison was refused. He was subsequently taken from her by a court order from Oldham Council and placed with temporary adoptive parents before being adopted by Varley and McGowan.
Adoption Now, which handled Preston's adoption, was represented at the hearing, along with Bolton Council, described as the “host” council for the body. Oldham Council managed Preston's adoption, while Bolton Council also had a role.
Lawyers for Gary Nolan, Preston's father, and legal representatives for the NHS trust running Blackpool Victoria Hospital were also present. Whether South Shore Academy, the high school where Varley worked, should be involved in the inquest remains unresolved. Additionally, it is yet to be decided whether Lancashire Police should have legal representation at an inquest.
The trial heard that police officers were called after Preston was taken to hospital for the first time with injuries and safeguarding concerns were raised, but no further action was taken.
Mr. Wilson adjourned the hearing for a further session in October, telling Preston's father: “Please accept everyone's condolences, I'm conscious we are approaching his anniversary.”
