Northumberland: Body found in search for former England rugby player Tom Voyce
Last updated 12th Dec 2024
Police searching for former England rugby player Tom Voyce - feared to have been swept away attempting to cross a flooded river in Northumberland - have confirmed they've found a body.
The 43-year-old failed to return home following a night out with friends on Saturday, when weather warnings were in place across the UK amid Storm Darragh.
It's believed Mr Voyce had entered the River Aln near Alnwick after attempting to cross Abberwick Ford in his car, which was recovered earlier this week.
Northumbria Police's Marine Unit discovered the body in the river near Abberwick Mill this morning (Thursday).
Formal identification has not taken place but Mr Voyce's next of kin have been informed.
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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."
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Mr Voyce won nine caps for England during his career and spent six years at Wasps, from 2003 to 2009, where he helped them win European and domestic titles, moving there from Bath and then leaving to join Gloucester in 2009.
As well as specialist officers, the National Police Air Service, drones, dog handlers and Coastguard teams were also involved in the search, alongside mountain rescue team volunteers and members of Tom’s family and friends.
Police say they don't believe there to be any third-party involvement in his death and a report, detailing the circumstances, will be prepared for the coroner.
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