A man accused of murdering a woman with an axe has been arraigned – or formally charged – and has denied two counts.
Donald Excell, 48, of Seabourne Road, Bexhill, appeared at Hove Crown Court this morning (Friday 16 May) charged with the murder of Rita Lambourne. He pleaded not guilty.
Excell also pleaded not guilty to having an axe in Bayencourt South, Bexhill, where she lived and where her body was found.
A trial date, Monday 18 August, was set when Excell appeared at Lewes Crown Court on Wednesday 19 February, a week after the death.
Judge Christine Henson remanded Excell in custody.
Rita Lambourne, 58, was attacked at a house in Bayencourt South just after 10pm last Wednesday (12 February).
Sussex Police previously said that they believed an axe was used in the attack and appealed 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 had been informed and were being supported by specialist officers.
Several family members attended court in Hove this morning.
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, were released. They face no further action.
The senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell, said in February: “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.”
