Leigh Pateman sentenced for murder

Leigh Pateman, 45, has today been sentenced to a minimum term of 27 years in prison for the murder of Ellen Marshall. 

Pateman, previously of Firbeck Avenue, Skegness, previously pleaded guilty on 8 November to the murder of Ellen.

He appeared today at Lincoln Crown Court where he was handed the minimum term sentence which allowing for time already served, means it will be 23 years and 145 days before he can be considered for parole.   

The sentencing follows an horrific assault on 22 April 2021 at Firbeck Avenue where Pateman picked up a jerry can of petrol during an argument and poured it into Ellen's lap as she sat in an armchair. He then ignited it with his lighter.

Ellen was rushed to hospital with between 80 per cent and 90 per cent burns to the top half of her body. She spent the rest of her life in hospitals and care homes.

Ellen tragically died of her injuries on 11 March 2023.

Pateman was already serving a 17-year and ten month sentence after pleading guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Following Ellen's death, he was charged with murder. 

Detective Inspector Andy McWatt said: “This was a truly shocking and barbaric attack. I cannot begin to imagine how much fear she must have felt, and how painful the rest of Ellen's life was. Her family had to watch someone they love suffer from terrible injuries for almost two years. I hope that they can feel some measure of closure that her killer has been sentenced for that crime."

Help and support 

Ellen’s case was the most horrifying result of domestic violence, but we know that there are people who suffer abuse day in, day out, and that abuse does not always include violence.

We know that not everyone will want to report to us. Most importantly, our message is that there is help regardless.

• The Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service (LDASS) offer support to anyone suffering abuse.
• There is also a National Domestic Abuse Helpline – if there is any doubt in your mind about your own, or someone else’s relationship, please consider finding out more and taking advice.
• If you have concerns about your partner or ex partner, you can ask under Clare's Law if we hold information about violence in their past, which might help you make a decision for your future.
• We know it’s in the nature of an abuser to monitor a victim’s movements, look at their mobile phone, listen in on calls and check who they are talking to. Safe Spaces have been set up in pharmacies to give people a place to seek support and find out about their options away from the intrusive monitoring of an abuser.
• If you are a child or young person and domestic abuse is happening in your home or relationship, tell someone you trust, like a teacher. You can also call Childline on 0800 1111. 

If you or your children are in immediate danger you should always call 999.

If you are worried about your own behaviour 

There is no excuse for abuse. If you are abusive, get help. Call the Respect helpline on 0808 802 4040