The tragic cases of two toddlers brutally murdered by their fathers have sparked renewed calls for an expanded review into the circumstances surrounding their deaths, with campaigners arguing that another heartbreaking case must be included in any investigation. Preston Davey's death, aged just 13 months, at the hands of his father Jamie Varley is still fresh in the public consciousness, particularly given Varley's conviction and subsequent whole-life prison term.
However, as our examination of these cases reveals, there are disturbing parallels between Preston's case and that of Damion Russell, who was also killed by his father Daniel Hardcastle just weeks after Preston's demise. The two-year-old had been seen at Blackpool Victoria Hospital the day before one of Preston's three visits to its A&E department, yet staff failed to question Hardcastle about old bruising observed on Damion's head, a practice that fell short of "expected standards," according to a review by the Blackpool Safeguarding Children Partnership.
Hannah Joy Hocking, a friend assisting Damion's biological mother, has been vocal in her advocacy for the inclusion of Damion's case within any forthcoming inquiry. She highlights the striking similarities between the two tragic incidents, particularly the role that Blackpool Victoria Hospital played in both. While Varley had used a pre-recorded video to explain away fresh injuries to medics, it has emerged that Hardcastle was also able to deceive staff about his son's condition.
Both children had recently been moved from foster care and placed with their parents, who ultimately proved capable of inflicting unimaginable harm. The fact that Varley had previously used a similar tactic in relation to Preston's injuries raises further concerns about the hospital's response to observed signs of abuse. Blackpool's coroners' service has stated that Damion's case is now closed, although no decision has yet been made regarding Preston's.
Blackpool South Labour MP Chris Webb and Fylde MP Andrew Snowden have both called for a public inquiry into potential safeguarding failures surrounding Preston Davey's death. In response, the trust operating Blackpool Victoria Hospital has acknowledged the importance of reviewing its practices to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in future. They highlighted ongoing work aimed at bolstering staff confidence in questioning and examination procedures.
The hospital trust also committed to considering evidence from Varley's trial as part of their efforts to strengthen safeguarding measures, although it remains unclear whether this will extend to a more comprehensive review into the handling of both cases. The campaign for an expanded investigation is likely to continue, with campaigners arguing that justice can only be served if all relevant circumstances surrounding these heart-wrenching incidents are examined.