Staining

Staining, Lancashire, is a location in the news due to its connection with Jamie Varley, a former schoolteacher who was recently found guilty of the murder and sexual abuse of his adopted 13-month-old son, Preston Davey. Varley, along with his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley, had adopted the baby, presenting themselves as an ordinary couple to neighbours and friends. However, the trial revealed Varley's true nature as a "serial manipulator and a serial liar." Preston Davey died from acute upper airways obstruction. Varley denied the murder and 25 other offences but was convicted after an eight-week trial. The case highlights the tragic outcome of child abuse within an adoptive family and brings the community of Staining into the spotlight due to the perpetrator's residency there.