Jamie Varley given whole life order for murder of adopted toddler Preston Davey

Jamie Varley and McGowan Fazakerley

John McGowan Fazakerley was jailed for 25 years for offences linked to Preston’s death.

Oldham Evening Chronicle reports that Jamie Varley, 37, received a whole life order at Preston Crown Court on 18 June after a jury found him guilty of murder, grievous bodily harm, sexual assault, child cruelty and offences relating to indecent images of Preston.

Passing sentence, Mr Justice Turner told Varley that the case was of the “most extreme gravity” and said he would never be eligible for parole.

McGowan Fazakerley, 32, was sentenced to 25 years in prison after being convicted of causing or allowing the death of a child, child cruelty offences and sexual assault of a child.

The court heard Preston was born on 16 June 2022 and was taken into the care of Oldham Council shortly after his birth. Varley and McGowan Fazakerley were approved as adopters in January 2023 and Preston began living with them in Blackpool in April that year.

Jurors heard that Preston was subjected to sustained physical, sexual and emotional abuse before being taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital in cardiac arrest on 27 July 2023. He was pronounced dead later that evening.

The case has prompted wider scrutiny of adoption and safeguarding arrangements. An independent review has previously been announced following the convictions.