Preston Davey’s birth father has spoken of how his murdered son suffered months of “terror at the hands of a monster” as hundreds assembled for a candlelit memorial to commemorate what should have been the youngster’s fourth birthday.
Gary Nolan honoured Preston Davey in Preston’s Flag Market on Wednesday night, standing alongside relatives, close friends and supporters in remembrance of the little lad who perished at the hands of his adoptive father in July 2023.
The 13-month-old was slain by teacher Jamie Varley, 37, from Blackpool, Lancashire. Varley’s partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, was also found guilty of sexual assault, child cruelty and permitting the death of a child.
The duo are scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday.
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In conversation with BBC North West Tonight, Nolan expressed the anguish of acknowledging his son’s birthday in his absence and his fury towards the men culpable, reports the MEN.
“My son went through four months of terror at the hands of a monster,” he said.
“My son should be alive today on his birthday and not dead.”
Preston arrived in June 2022 and was placed into care by Oldham Council soon after delivery.
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His mother, Sarah Davey, now 42, had been imprisoned aged 14 for the killing of a frail pensioner in 1998 and had experienced spells behind bars since.
Preston was positioned with foster carers at five days old and stayed with them for his first 10 months of life.
Yet, in April 2023, Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley received approval to adopt him and Preston relocated to their residence in Blackpool. Throughout the brief period of less than four months under their supervision, Preston endured consistent mistreatment, sexual violation and physical attacks, sustaining 40 traumatic wounds.
View 4 Images(Image: Lancashire Police)
The court proceedings revealed he was brought to Blackpool Victoria Hospital on three separate occasions in the months preceding his passing on July 27, 2023.
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Those gathered at the vigil illuminated candles while a bagpiper performed in Preston’s honour.
Event organiser Niamh Cardwell-Clarke explained the vigil aimed to celebrate Preston’s life rather than dwell on how he died. “The event is about remembering Preston and the beautiful little boy he was,” she said.
“Just come along, pay a tribute, 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.”