The senior coroner for Blackpool and Fylde has told a hearing that it is highly likely he will hold a public inquest into the death of 13‑month‑old Preston Davey. The coroner said that issues relating to actions and possible omissions by public authorities require further scrutiny.
Inquest to examine role of public services
Alan Wilson, senior coroner, opened an inquest shortly after Preston's death but suspended it while police carried out their investigation and the criminal proceedings took place. The criminal trial ended in June with the child's carers convicted.
“I feel there’s sufficient reason to resume.”
Mr Wilson told Blackpool Coroner’s Court that, although material had been heard during the eight‑week criminal trial, he had to consider whether an inquest should proceed to allow a public examination of the involvement of various agencies. He did not make a final decision at Monday’s hearing but said an inquest was likely to be held, probably in the autumn of next year, subject to submissions from lawyers representing public bodies.
Background and criminal outcome
Preston, described at the time as a highly visible adopted child, died after sustained abuse at a home in Staining. He was murdered on 27 July 2023. His carers — former teacher Jamie Varley, 37, and his partner, John McGowan‑Fazakerley, 32 — had been in the process of adopting the child months earlier.
Following the trial, Varley was given a whole life term for murder and 24 other offences; his co‑defendant received a 25‑year sentence. The court heard Preston had endured repeated sexual and physical assaults.
Concerns about prior contacts with services
Evidence presented to the coroner noted Preston had been taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital on three separate occasions before his death and had been seen by a large number of professionals, including medical staff, social workers and welfare officers from several agencies. It is this record of contact that underlies the coroner’s view that public bodies’ actions or failures must be examined in a public forum.
- Inquest initially opened soon after Preston’s death but was suspended for the criminal investigation.
- Senior coroner says public hearing likely to resume, allowing family participation.
- Any inquest is expected to take place in the autumn of next year, pending legal submissions.
The coroner’s indication that an inquest will probably proceed means local statutory agencies may face detailed public scrutiny of their past contacts with Preston and his carers. Families and community groups in Blackpool concerned with child protection and the performance of health and social services will be watching closely as the process moves toward a final decision.
| Key dates | Event |
|---|---|
| 27 July 2023 | Preston was murdered |
| June (year not specified in hearing) | Criminal trial concluded; convictions and sentences imposed |
| Next autumn | Coroner indicated an inquest is likely to be held |
The coroner made clear that a resumed inquest would allow Preston’s family to participate in a public hearing. Any subsequent findings or prevention recommendations arising from such an inquest could inform local practice and policy across health and social care services in Blackpool and the wider Fylde area.
