Axe killer Donald Excell faces life in prison after a jury unanimously convicted him of the murder of his cousin Rita Lambourne.
The jury of eight men and four women retired to consider their verdicts at 11am today (Friday 19 December) at Hove Crown Court.
After four hours and 20 minutes of deliberation, Excell was pronounced guilty of murder and of having a bladed weapon to gasps of relief and stifled tears from her family in the public gallery.
Judge Christine Henson remanded the 49-year-old killer in custody to await sentence on Thursday 12 March when he will also be sentenced for an assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH).
Although Excell faces a life term, the trial judge told him that she would be required to set the minimum tariff – or minimum number of years that he would serve in prison. She ordered a psychiatric report to be prepared.
Simon Gledhill, prosecuting, had earlier told the court that Excell crept into the Bexhill home of Rita Lambourne, 58, and attacked her with an axe on Wednesday 12 February.
Mr Gledhill said that Excell struck her with four powerful blows, killing her with “chilling brutality and ruthless efficiency”.
Mr Excell denied murder but CCTV camera footage helped police to bring Excell to justice
Outside the court, Rita Lambourne’s daughter Lucie, 33, said that the verdict was a relief after the most painful time.
She said that her mother was a lovely, caring and beautiful woman and told reporters: “Today marks a moment of solemn closure and collective strength for our family.
“Following the court’s verdict, which found Donald Excell guilty of the murder of Rita Marie Lambourne, we come together to honour Rita’s life.
“This outcome reflects the tireless work of the police, the judicial system and the unwavering courage of a family that refused to allow violence to define our future.
“While no verdict can undo the loss of Rita, the court’s decision affirms accountability and upholds the principle that justice must prevail.
“Rita was more than a victim – she was a cherished presence whose kindness, laughter and love continue to bind us together.
“Throughout this painful journey, our family found strength in one another, choosing solidarity over despair and dignity over anger.
“We ask that the public and the press remember this moment not solely for the crime that occurred but for the resilience of those left behind and for Rita’s life – a life that will always be honoured, remembered and deeply missed.
“Rita Marie Lambourne – mother, daughter, sister, nan, aunty, cousin, partner and friend. Your soul will always hold a place in our hearts.”
