Amy Fenton

Blackpool Tower will be illuminated blue on July 27 in memory of 13‑month‑old Preston Davey, who was sexually abused and murdered by adoptive father Jamie Varley. Varley received a whole-life order, and partner John McGowan-Fazakerley was jailed for 25 years for related offences. England’s Children’s Commissioner called the case a major safeguarding failure and urged a full review, which Oldham Council has launched to determine whether missed opportunities could have prevented the death. The couple’s home, purchased shortly after the child’s death, is now being auctioned with disclosure of the convictions included for transparency.