Amy Fenton

A coroner indicated that the inquest into the death of toddler Preston Davey is expected to resume, but not until 2027, due to an ongoing child safeguarding review by Oldham Council prompted by new information from the criminal trial of his adoptive parents, who were convicted of murder and related offences. Bolton Council and other agencies involved in the adoption process participated in the pre-inquest review, where the likelihood of an Article 2 inquest was discussed, reflecting potential failures in state duty to protect life. Further reviews will continue later in the year, with the full inquest anticipated no earlier than autumn 2027.

An inquest found that Gemma Freeman, a 45‑year‑old mother from Darwen, died by suicide after leaving letters attributing her decision to her estranged husband, Alan Cooper, whom relatives described as psychologically abusive. Testimony detailed allegations of repeated mistreatment, including coercive behaviour and prior comments encouraging self‑harm. Police investigated the possibility of manslaughter but concluded the evidence did not meet the criminal threshold, a decision currently under review. The coroner recorded a conclusion of suicide, noting Freeman herself linked her death to the breakdown of the relationship.