Man convicted of Bexhill murder

A 48-year-old man from Bexhill has been convicted of the murder of 58-year-old Rita Lambourne, following a trial at Hove Crown Court.

Rita was fatally wounded at an address in Bayencourt South on the evening of 12 February, at around 9.30pm. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, she was sadly confirmed deceased at the scene.

Donald Excell, 48, of Seabourne Road, Bexhill, was arrested shortly after the incident on 14 February and later charged with her murder and possession of a weapon in a public place. Following a trial, that concluded on Friday, 19 December, he was found guilty by a unanimous jury on both counts. He will be sentenced at the same court on 12 March. 

The jury heard how Excell, a cousin of Rita’s, calmly entered her home that night and attacked her with an axe, causing fatal injuries.

Using extensive CCTV footage, police were able to track Excell’s movements in the hours before and after the attack, which ultimately led to his identification and arrest. During police interviews, Excell answered “no comment” to most questions.

Officers were initially unable to locate the weapon, clothing or bag used during the murder. However, on 20 September, the investigation took a crucial turn when some teenage boys discovered a rucksack when fishing at a lake north of Bexhill. Inside the bag they found clothing and a sheath for an axe, along with a sandbag used to weigh the bag down. Following a search of the lake, officers later discovered an axe.

Subsequent financial enquiries revealed that Excell had purchased an axe and a leather axe sheath in 2019, both were delivered to his home address. Expert analysis confirmed that the wounds sustained by Rita were consistent with an axe of that size.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “This has been an extremely distressing case for everyone involved, particularly Rita’s family and friends, as well as the wider community. Today’s verdict reflects the strength of the evidence gathered and the tireless work of our investigation teams.

“We hope that this outcome provides some measure of closure for those who loved Rita. Our thoughts remain firmly with them.

“We would like to thank Rita’s family for their courage, patience and dignity throughout this incredibly difficult time."

A tribute from Rita's family:

"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."