Man charged with axe murder of woman in own home

A man has been charged with murder after the death of a woman in East Sussex.

Rita Lambourne, 58, died at her home in Bayencourt South, Bexhill, just after 22:00 GMT on Wednesday.

Sussex Police confirmed on Tuesday it had charged Donald Excell, 48, of Seabourne Road in Bexhill, with Ms Lambourne's murder.

The force says it believes Mr Excell killed Ms Lambourne using an axe, which it has so far been unable to find.

Det Ch Insp 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 enquiries 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."

Police are asking residents in Bexhill to check bins, gardens and other outside spaces for an axe and a navy blue The North Face rucksack.

A 39-year-old woman from Bexhill who was arrested on suspicion of murder, and a 32-year-old man from Bexhill arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, have been released with no further action.

Mr Excell is due to appear at Brighton Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.

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