A trial date has been set for a man who has been charged with murdering a woman who was killed in Bexhill last week.
Donald Excell, 48, of Seabourne Road, Bexhill, appeared in court this morning (Wednesday 19 February) charged with murdering Rita Lambourne.
Excell wore a grey crew-neck sweatshirt and spoke only to confirm his name. He was not asked to enter a plea.
The court was told: “This is an ongoing and dynamic investigation.”
Judge Christine Laing, the honorary recorder of Brighton and Hove, set the trial down for Monday 18 August and remanded Excell in custody.
Rita Lambourne, 58, was attacked at a house in Bayencourt South just after 10pm last Wednesday (12 February).
Police today said that they believe an axe was used in the attack and are appealing for help in locating it – as well as a blue rucksack.
They said that, despite the best efforts of paramedics, Ms Lambourne was confirmed dead at the scene. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
A 39-year-old woman from Bexhill who was arrested on suspicion of murder and a 32-year-old man, from Bexhill, who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, have been released. They face no further action.
The senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell, said: “This has been a hugely distressing incident, not least for the family and friends of Rita, but also the wider community.
“I’d like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while our officers have conducted inquiries in the local area.
“Our officers will remain on patrol for reassurance, and in the meantime, I would still urge anyone who can assist us in our investigation to please come forward and contact us.
“We are specifically asking the public for their help in locating two items which we believe are connected to the offence and are currently outstanding.
“One is a navy blue The North Face bag and the second is an axe we believe was used in the attack. We are asking all residents in Bexhill to please check your bins, gardens, and other outside spaces where these items may have been hidden.
“If you see anything suspicious, please get in touch – any information, no matter how small, could be crucial.
“You can upload any information directly to our Major Incident Public Portal or by calling 101 quoting Operation Mulberry.”
