Blackpool CC, a historic cricket ground that has hosted legendary players, is facing challenges. The Lancashire men's team's recent defeats and relegation, coupled with internal club disputes and economic struggles in the town, cast a shadow over its future, despite efforts to engage refugees and attract new talent.
A former teacher and his partner are on trial accused of murdering an adopted baby who suffered 40 traumatic injuries before dying in hospital on 27 July 2023. The court heard defendant Varley texted his sister calling the infant 'dead meat' and later told his mother the child was 'murdered' weeks before the baby's death. The 10-month-old baby was adopted by the couple in Blackpool and had been taken into care by Oldham Council at five days old.
A former high school teacher Jamie Varley, 37, and his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, are on trial at Preston Crown Court accused of sexually abusing and murdering a 13-month-old baby boy they adopted. Preston Davey died on 27 July 2023 at Blackpool Victoria Hospital after suffering approximately 40 traumatic injuries over four months. The prosecution alleges Varley smothered the child and committed sexual assault, while McGowan-Fazakerley failed to protect the baby. Both defendants deny all charges.
