Thug pleads GUILTY to murdering ex who died two years after he doused her in petrol and set her on fire in brutal attack
A THUG has admitted murdering his ex who died two years after she was doused in petrol and set alight.
Leigh Pateman, 45, caused “significant” burns to 90 per cent of Ellen Marshall’s body during the horror in April 2021.
Ellen, who was 42 at the time, was given a 50 per cent chance of survival but went on to live for another two years.
She tragically died in Nottingham City Hospital in March 2023 after requiring round-the-clock care and a ventilator to help her breathe.
Pateman was previously jailed for grievous bodily harm with intent following the savage attack.
He today pleaded guilty to the more serious charge of murder following Ellen’s death.
Pateman is now facing a life in prison when he returns to court on December 2 for sentencing.
Ellen had been sitting in an armchair at home in Skegness when her ex-partner poured petrol over her and set her alight.
The cowardly thug fled on his bike and left Ellen in the flat for dead.
She was discovered when firefighters arrived at the home and heard gurgling noises.
The mum suffered horrific burns, lost several fingers and her hair and had to undergo 12 hours of surgery when she first arrived at hospital.
Ellen’s eyes were also severely damaged and she struggled to breathe for herself.
Pateman, whose face was left charred in the attack, was jailed in 2022 for 21 years.
At the time, Judge Simon Hirst said: “Ellen’s injuries are irreversible and she will never be able to return to her former life.
“It is difficult to think of a crueller crime than setting someone alight.”
Ellen’s daughter Paige Clarke paid tribute to her mum in a Facebook post following her death.
She said: “No more pain and suffering now mum.
“Sleep well and I will see you soon. I love you.”