The senior coroner for Blackpool and Fylde, Alan Wilson, has stated there is “sufficient reason” to resume an inquest into the death of murdered toddler Preston Davey, warning that public bodies may face scrutiny over their actions before his death. The inquest, which is now likely to take place in autumn 2027, will examine the involvement of various public authorities in Preston’s short life.
Coroner’s Decision on Resuming Inquest
At a hearing at Blackpool Coroner’s Court, Mr Wilson said: “I feel there’s sufficient reason to resume. There are acts and omissions of public authorities that need to be scrutinised in a public hearing in which Preston’s family can participate. It’s clearly going to be a wide-ranging inquiry.” A final decision will be made after submissions from lawyers representing multiple public bodies.
Background of the Case
Preston Davey was just 13 months old when he was murdered by his adoptive father, Jamie Varley, 37, in July 2023. Varley and his partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, adopted the toddler only four months before his death. An eight-week criminal trial revealed that the couple treated Preston as their “plaything,” subjecting him to “unremitting abuse” involving sexual assaults and physical attacks. Varley was handed a whole-life order for murder and 24 other offences, while McGowan-Fazakerley was jailed for 25 years.
Contact with Professionals Before Death
The hearing was told that Preston had been seen by a “battery of professionals,” including medical staff, social workers, and welfare officers, before his murder. He had also been taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital three times before his death. The court heard that officers were called after Preston was first taken to hospital with injuries and safeguarding concerns were raised, but no further action was taken.
Review and Timeline
Oldham Safeguarding Children’s Partnership has resumed its review into Preston’s death after it was paused during the criminal trial. The review is not expected to be completed until January 2027, meaning any inquest cannot be held before then. Mr Wilson said he would make a final decision after considering whether the “relevant issues” had already been explored during the eight-week criminal trial.
Legal Representation and Family Involvement
Monday’s hearing also considered which people and public bodies should be legally represented if the inquest goes ahead. Preston’s biological mother and grandmother, Sara and Debbie Davey, were represented by lawyers, along with his father, Gary Nolan. The hearing was told Preston was born while his mother was in custody after she was refused a place in a prison mother and baby unit. He was removed under a court order obtained by Oldham Council before being placed with temporary adoptive parents and later adopted by Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley.
Adjournment and Condolences
Mr Wilson adjourned the hearing until October, telling Preston’s father: “Please accept everyone’s condolences, I’m conscious we are approaching his anniversary.” The inquest is expected to be a wide-ranging inquiry into the actions of public bodies involved in Preston’s care.
