Body found in search for ex-England rugby player Tom Voyce after car went into river during Storm Darragh

Police previously said Tom Voyce, 43, had tried to cross a flood-swollen river in Northumberland when his car was pulled along with the current during Storm Darragh.

Thursday 12 December 2024 17:53, UK

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A body has been found in the search for former England rugby player Tom Voyce.

He went missing on Saturday while attempting to drive across a flood-swollen river in Northumberland.

Police previously said they believe the 43-year-old was trying to cross Abberwick Ford, about three miles from Alnwick, when his car was pulled along with the current of the River Aln during the recent Storm Darragh.

Officers suspect he was swept away while trying to escape the vehicle.

His Toyota Hilux has already been recovered downstream from the ford.

The former international is thought to have been heading home after spending Saturday evening with friends and concerns were raised for his well-being on Sunday.

Formal identification has not taken place but Voyce's next of kin have been informed.

Chief Superintendent Helena Barron, of Northumbria Police, said: "This is an extremely sad development and our thoughts very much continue to be with Tom's loved ones.

"I would like to thank all of our officers, partners and volunteers for their assistance throughout the searches which have been conducted in very challenging circumstances.

"We would continue to ask that people respect the family's privacy at this time."

A major search operation was launched including police, drones, helicopters, coastguard officers and family and friends of the former rugby player.

Search teams spent recent days scouring the banks of the river from the ford, between Bolton village and Abberwick, to the sea at Alnmouth.

Then on Thursday, specialist officers from Northumbria Police's marine unit located the body near Abberwick Mill.

The world of rugby expressed its shock and sadness when Voyce went missing, including messages from World Cup winners Matt Dawson and Lawrence Dallaglio.

Dawson, who played alongside Voyce at Wasps between 2004 and 2006, wrote on social media: "One of life's wonderful humans... I can't express my sadness right now... All the Dawsons send their love & strength to Anna and the whole family."

England Rugby said its "thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends" of its former player.

British and Irish Lions said it was sending its "heartfelt thoughts and prayers".

Premiership Rugby said it was "devastated by the news".

Officers do not believe there to be any third-party involvement.

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