Preston Davey was just 13 months old when he was killed by Jamie Varley who was in the process of adopting him with his then partner John McGowan-Fazakerley20:16, 02 Jul 2026Blackpool Tower will be lit up in blue in memory of tragic toddler Preston Davey who was sexually abused and murdered by his adoptive father.Preston was just 13 months old when he was killed by Jamie Varley who was in the process of adopting him with his then partner John McGowan-Fazakerley.During a trial lasting more than seven weeks at Preston Crown Court, jurors heard how Preston had suffered extensive physical, emotional and sexual abuse after being placed with the couple as prospective adopters in March, 2023.A post-mortem examination found the toddler had sustained around 40 injuries. Prosecutors described the case as one of the most shocking they had encountered, with him enduring a sustained campaign of abuse during the final months of his life.Varley was convicted of murder, sexual offences, causing grievous bodily harm, cruelty and indecent image offences and sentenced to a whole life order. McGowan-Fazakerley was found guilty of causing or allowing the death of a child, cruelty and sexual assault and jailed for 25 years.A request to light up the tower is understood to have come from Preston's birth mum Sarah Davey and the tower will be lit up in blue on July 27.A spokesperson for Blackpool Tourism told LancsLive: "I can confirm that the Tower will be lit in blue on Monday 27 July."The “harrowing” death of baby Preston was branded “a failure of the state and the safeguarding system” by England’s Children’s Commissioner.Dame Rachel de Souza said a safeguarding review must find out “whether we could have prevented Preston’s murder” and the Government has pledged to ensure “anyone responsible for negligence faces consequences”.A local child safeguarding practice review (LCSPR), launched by Oldham Council after the child’s death, will look at whether there were any missed opportunities to spot issues with his care while he was alive.Such reviews are carried out after the death or serious injury of a child where abuse or neglect are known or suspected to be a factor and they consider the work of all agencies involved including police, health, social care and education.Meanwhile, Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley's new home, which they moved into just 22 days after Preston died, has been put on the market. The house is due to be sold at an online auction closing on July 31.The home's listing describes it as an "immaculate detached property with stunning countryside views" and is said to represent "an ideal opportunity for families".However, prospective buyers are warned: "The vendor is currently serving a custodial sentence following conviction for offences involving [a minor]. It is understood that the offences were not committed at the property.Article continues below"This information is being provided in the interests of transparency and to assist prospective purchasers in making an informed decision. Buyers should undertake their own enquiries and satisfy themselves as to any matters that may influence their decision to bid for or purchase the property."