Body discovered during search for former England rugby player missing in flood

A deceased individual has been located during the search operation for Tom Voyce, a former England rugby international, who disappeared in a region inundated by floodwaters during Storm Darragh. Authorities had expressed concern that the 43-year-old might have perished after attempting to traverse Abberwick Ford, situated near Bolton, Northumberland, in a vehicle subsequently swept away by the water’s flow. The search efforts had been underway since Sunday, and Northumbria Police’s Marine Unit located a body close to Abberwick Mill previously today. While formal identification has not yet occurred, Mr Voyce’s next of kin have been informed. Apprehensions arose when Mr Voyce, who earned nine caps for England between 2001 and 2006, failed to return to his residence after spending Saturday evening with companions. Ch Supt Helena Barron of Northumbria Police stated: “This is an extremely sad development and our thoughts very much continue to be with Mr Voyce’s loved ones.” Law enforcement officials do not suspect any involvement from another party. The athlete’s family and acquaintances participated in the search operation alongside police personnel, mountain rescue units, and the National Police Air Service. His wife, Anna, and family had previously extended gratitude to the police, friends, and the local populace for their assistance and backing. Police reported that the search was conducted under “very challenging” circumstances, as the river’s flow and water level were elevated following significant rainfall throughout the weekend. Mr Voyce, a native of Truro in Cornwall, competed for Wasps, Bath, and Gloucester prior to his retirement from professional rugby in 2013. He had previously been employed by the bank Investec and has resided in Alnwick since 2020. Tributes from the rugby community included those from former England international Mike Tindall, who was a teammate of Mr Voyce at Gloucester. A message posted by his podcast, The Good, The Bad and The Rugby, conveyed: “He epitomised rugby as a game for all shapes and sizes, punching well above his weight.” “His ability to break tackles and his durability were exceptional. He was a great character off the pitch.” His co-host, former England standout James Haskell, also offered a tribute, stating: “He was a teammate, a friend and an incredible player – someone I admired who always punched above his weight.” “He will be sorely missed by everybody.” A carol service scheduled for Bolton Chapel, located close to the search area, was called off on Wednesday. The Reverend Gill Lonsdale commented: “Nobody really has the heart to gather and sing carols, so it felt the right decision not to hold the event this year.” For updates, follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story submissions can be sent to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.