A senior coroner has indicated that an inquest is 'highly likely' to be held into the death of adopted baby Preston Davey, who died after suffering months of sexual and physical abuse. Alan Wilson, the senior coroner for Blackpool and Fylde, stated that there were 'sufficient reasons to resume' an inquest, with a focus on scrutinising the handling of the case by public bodies.
Preston, who was 13 months old, was murdered on 27 July 2023 by his adoptive father, Jamie Varley, 37, during a sex attack. Varley, a former high school teacher, was subsequently handed a whole life term for murder and 24 other offences after an eight-week trial concluded in June of this year. His partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, was jailed for 25 years in connection with the abuse. The court heard that the child had been treated as a 'plaything' and subjected to 'unremitting abuse' at their home in Blackpool.
The hearing at Blackpool Coroner's Court heard that Preston had been taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital three times before his death and had been seen by numerous professionals, including medical staff, social workers, and welfare officers from various organisations. Mr Wilson emphasised the need for a public hearing where Preston's family could participate, stating, 'There are acts and omissions of public authorities that need to be scrutinised.' He acknowledged calls for a wider public inquiry but clarified that this falls outside his remit as coroner.
An initial inquest was opened shortly after Preston's death but was suspended to allow for the police investigation and subsequent criminal trial. Mr Wilson noted that while relevant issues were heard during the criminal proceedings, further examination of the roles of public bodies is warranted. The court was informed that the Oldham Safeguarding Children's Partnership has resumed its review into Preston's death, which is not expected to conclude until January 2027. An inquest cannot be held before this review is completed, meaning any potential inquest would likely take place in autumn 2027.
The hearing also addressed which individuals and public bodies should be legally represented at any future inquest. This included Preston's biological mother and grandmother, Sara and Debbie Davey, as well as his father, Gary Nolan. Legal representatives for Adoption Now, Bolton Council, Oldham Council, and the NHS trust responsible for Blackpool Victoria Hospital were also present. The involvement of South Shore Academy, where Varley worked, and Lancashire Police, whose officers were called after initial safeguarding concerns were raised, remains under consideration. Mr Wilson adjourned the proceedings for a further hearing.