Good Morning Britain viewers were left heartbroken over a deeply tragic case involving the death of a 13-month-old baby. The ITV daytime show returned on Thursday, June 18, with presenters Richard Madeley and Ranvir Singh welcoming a social worker to discuss the distressing death of baby Preston Davey.
The Tragic Case of Baby Preston Davey
Preston Davey, aged 13 months, died in July 2023. His adoptive father, teacher Jamie Varley, was found guilty of sexually abusing and murdering him. Varley's partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, who also adopted Preston, was found guilty of sexual assault, child cruelty, and allowing the death of a child. The pair were sentenced on Thursday.
GMB Discussion Sparks Tensions
During the Good Morning Britain discussion, a guest accused the hosts of 'attacking' her as she defended the work of social workers. Richard Madeley asked about a safeguarding review, questioning how often such statements are made after similar cases. The guest responded firmly, saying she felt attacked and defending social workers' efforts. Richard denied attacking her, but the guest continued, emphasizing that agencies work together and that courts ultimately decide where children should live.
Ranvir Singh questioned whether social workers should have more authority, but the guest clarified that medical views and court decisions are key. She added, 'Social workers are good people who are doing their very best to keep children safe. We will never stop people killing their children unfortunately.'
Viewers React with Heartbreak
Viewers were deeply moved by the story. One wrote, 'This story breaks my heart. That poor baby I really can't get over how a human can be so cruel and evil. Scum of the earth.' Another said, 'Heartbreaking #gmb about the child who was killed, social workers take away kids for a lot less why didn't they protect this one?' Another viewer pleaded, 'Pleaseeee stop showing pictures of Baby Preston @GMB #GMB it's too upsetting.'
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX.
