ROBERT EXCELL'S DEATH BRINGS RELIEF TO WANTAGE AND ABINGDON RESIDENTS

In April 2011, the community was informed of the passing of Robert Excell, a man notorious for his criminal past involving sexual offenses against boys. Excell, aged 72 at the time of his death, had a long and troubling history that spanned several continents and years of incarceration.

Originally residing in Abingdon, Excell had spent an extensive 37 years behind bars in Australia due to his involvement in sexual attacks on young boys. His criminal activities in Australia led to his deportation in 2005, after which he relocated to East Hanney, a village near Wantage, with his wife, Maxine. During this period, he adopted the alias Daniel Wright and rented a cottage, attempting to conceal his true identity from the local community.

However, his efforts at anonymity were short-lived. A Sunday newspaper uncovered his real identity, prompting him to move from East Hanney to a residence on Anna Pavlova Close in Abingdon. Despite the move, Excell continued to live in the area until his death in January. His presence in the neighborhood had become a source of concern for local residents, especially parents.

By 2007, residents in the vicinity of Anna Pavlova Close began actively campaigning for Excell to leave the area, citing fears for the safety of their children. The community's apprehensions were fueled by his past and the potential threat he posed. Joanne Hobbs, a mother of three and one of the vocal campaigners, expressed her feelings about his death, stating, “I wasn’t aware that he had died. I think people living in the area will be relieved to hear that he has gone. But his wife should be allowed to get on with her life in peace.”

According to reports from The People newspaper, after his death, Excell’s ashes were scattered at White Horse Hill, near Uffington, a site known for its historical significance and scenic landscape. His passing marked the end of a chapter that had caused considerable unease among the local community in Wantage and Abingdon, bringing a sense of closure for many residents who had long feared his presence.