The foster mother of murdered baby Preston Davey has told a court she was “really worried” after he left her care for his adoptive dads in Blackpool. Preston, just 13 months old, died at Blackpool Victoria Hospital with around 40 internal and external injuries. Prosecutors say Jamie Varley and his partner John McGowan-Fazackerley were responsible while Preston was in their care.
Foster Carer Describes Happy Baby Before Tragedy
Mrs Sandra Cooper, who cared for Preston from five days old, told Preston Crown Court: “He was just beautiful. He was happy, he laughed, he smiled early – a really lovely baby. He loved cuddles and had great eye contact. He was having a really nice life.” Mrs Cooper and her husband Paul have been foster carers for 27 years, looking after 43 infants.
Adoption Approved, But Tensions Rise
Preston was matched with Varley, 37, a teacher, and McGowan-Fazackerley, 32, with approval given in March 2023. The introduction process began with a “really lovely” meeting at a restaurant where Preston was handed over happily. The couple had Preston staying overnight and, due to his reflux, Mrs Cooper stayed nearby to help if needed. She was never called. Preston moved permanently to their home on April 3, but by May tensions surfaced. Adoptive dads complained about another foster carer’s presence during visits. Mrs Cooper said, “I took that really badly. I thought that was the day I would never see him again. I cried all day.”
Mum’s Final Warning: ‘They Were Hiding Him’
Mrs Cooper said Preston started to appear “stiff and a bit blank” at a scheduled meeting and despite efforts, the adoptive family missed other appointments, including one on her birthday. She told social workers she had a “gut feeling” something was wrong and believed the dads were “hiding” Preston from her.
The Accused Face Serious Charges
- Jamie Varley faces charges including Preston’s murder, sexual assault, grievous bodily harm, child cruelty, and offences relating to indecent images.
- John McGowan-Fazackerley is accused of causing or allowing Preston’s death, cruelty, and sexual assault of a child under 13.
Both men, from Chandlers Way, Grimsargh, deny all charges. The harrowing trial continues.
