Body found in search for missing ex-England player Tom Voyce

A body has been recovered in the search for former England and Wasps centre Tom Voyce – UK media are reporting.

The 43-year-old was reported missing on Saturday after he attempted to drive across the flood-swollen River Aln in Northumberland during the severe weather conditions brought on by Storm Darragh.

Voyce was last seen after spending an evening with friends and it is understood that he encountered the swollen ford at Abberwick. His vehicle was subsequently found in the river.

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Authorities to believe he was swept away while trying to escape from the car.

The identity of the body found has not been officially confirmed as Voyce. Further updates will be provided once official confirmation is received.

Northumbria Police deployed specialist teams including Marine Section officers, drones and dog handlers in the search for the former England international. The efforts was further supported by volunteers from the North of Tyne Mountain Rescue and Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team, alongside Voyce’s family and friends.

The rugby community has expressed profound sorrow over the news. Voyce won nine caps for England during his Test career and played for Gallagher Premiership sides Wasps, Bath, and Gloucester.

Tributes have poured in.

Former England and Wasps No.8 Lawrence Dallaglio wrote: “It’s the most horrific news and all I would say at this juncture is that please let us all respect Tom’s family and their suffering right now and keep them in all our thoughts. Having experienced the same emotions myself when Francesca was missing and presumed dead. Her body wasn’t recovered for 4 days after the marchioness sank. It’s just such a tragedy. Sending all my love x”.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Tom Voyce at this extremely challenging time pic.twitter.com/i67ybydKD6

— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) December 10, 2024

Chief Superintendent Helena Barron from Northumbria Police stated: “This is an extremely tragic incident, and our thoughts are very much with Tom’s loved ones at this time.”

On Saturday, police said: “At this time, it is suspected Tom has attempted to cross Abberwick Ford in his car, which has then been pulled along with the current of the river. Officers have since recovered his car, but sadly Tom is yet to be found. It is believed in his attempts to escape he has been swept away and tragically died.”

The spokesperson said Voyce’s wife Anna and all his family have expressed their gratitude for all the help and support from the police, friends and the local community in the search.

Voyce amassed over 250 club appearances primarily with Gloucester, Bath, and Wasps, scoring 86 tries. Voyce won two Premiership titles and the 2007 Heineken Cup with Wasps.