Blackpool Tower will be lit blue on 27 July in memory of Preston Davey, the 13-month-old toddler killed by his adoptive father Jamie Varley. Varley was sentenced to a whole life order for the murder, which involved extensive abuse.
Tower Lighting Confirmed
A spokesperson for Blackpool Tourism confirmed to LancsLive: "I can confirm that the Tower will be lit in blue on Monday 27 July." The request came from Preston's birth mother, Sarah Davey.
The Murder and Trial
Preston was just 13 months old when he was killed by Varley, who was in the process of adopting him with his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley. A trial at Preston Crown Court heard that Preston suffered physical, emotional, and sexual abuse after being placed with the pair in March 2023. A post-mortem revealed approximately 40 injuries. Prosecutors described the case as among the most harrowing they had seen.
Sentences
Varley was found guilty of murder, sexual offences, causing grievous bodily harm, cruelty, and indecent image offences. He received a whole life order. McGowan-Fazakerley was convicted of causing or allowing the death of a child, cruelty, and sexual assault, and was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
Property Sale
LancsLive reported that the home Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley moved into just 22 days after Preston's death is now for sale via online auction ending 31 July. The listing describes it as an "immaculate detached property with stunning countryside views" and a note states the vendor is serving a custodial sentence for offences involving a minor, though the offences were not committed at the property.
