Community Gathers to Remember Preston Davey
Family, friends, and members of the community gathered at a candlelit vigil in Preston's Flag Market to honor Preston Davey on what would have been his fourth birthday. The event served as a poignant tribute to the 13-month-old, who tragically died in July 2023.
Biological Father Speaks of Anguish
Gary Nolan, Preston Davey's biological father, attended the vigil and shared his profound grief and outrage. Speaking to BBC North West Tonight, Nolan described his son's final months as a period of "terror at the hands of a monster." He emphasized that Preston "should be alive today on his birthday and not dead."
Details of Preston's Short Life and Death
Preston was born in June 2022 and was placed into care by Oldham Council due to his mother's history of incarceration. He spent the first ten months of his life with foster parents. In April 2023, Preston was approved for adoption and began living with Jamie Varley, 37, and John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, in Blackpool. During the nearly four months in their care, Preston suffered extensive abuse, including sexual assault, physical violence, and neglect, resulting in 40 traumatic injuries. The trial revealed Preston had been hospitalized three times before his death on July 27, 2023. Varley, his adoptive father, was convicted of murder and sexual abuse, while McGowan-Fazakerley was convicted of sexual assault, child cruelty, and allowing the death of a child. Both are awaiting sentencing.
Vigil Ceremony and Tributes
The vigil featured a piper playing bagpipes, followed by a minute of silence. Attendees lit candles, and many left teddies and flowers in remembrance. Organizer Niamh Cardwell-Clarke stated the event aimed to celebrate "the beautiful little boy he was" and encouraged people to "bring a candle, bring a teddy, blow some bubbles and let's just remember him for the beautiful boy he was and not for the horrific start in life he had." Additionally, numerous individuals posted images of candles lit in their homes to honor Preston's birthday.
Source: Murdered Preston Davey's biological dad tells of anguish at vigil