ALNWICK, England — A body has been discovered during the search for Tom Voyce, a former international rugby player for England, who went missing while attempting to cross a river swollen by heavy rains.
Voyce, aged 43, reportedly tried to drive over a section of the River Aln, located near the town of Alnwick, which is approximately 30 miles north of Newcastle. His vehicle was swept away by the turbulent waters, leading to a search operation that commenced on Sunday.
In an official statement, Northumbria Police confirmed, “A body has today sadly been found in the search for Tom Voyce.”
Following Storm Darragh, which caused elevated river levels over the previous weekend, authorities had expressed concerns regarding Voyce’s fate as he did not make it back home after enjoying a night out with friends on Saturday.
The police reported earlier this week that Voyce was likely swept away and was presumed dead. “Extensive searches were subsequently carried out with various partners. Tom’s family and friends were also involved in the search,” the police noted, adding, “Formal identification is yet to take place, but Tom’s next of kin have been informed and are currently receiving support from officers.”
As a professional rugby player, Voyce was known for his position as a wing, earning nine caps for the England national team between 2001 and 2006. He had a successful club career with Wasps from 2003 to 2009, where he secured both European and domestic titles. Additionally, he played for Bath and Gloucester, totaling 220 appearances in Premiership rugby before retiring in May 2013.
