tom voyce

Tom Voyce Missing: Rugby Community Unites in Search Efforts Following Disappearance in Northumberland

The rugby world is reeling after former England international rugby star, Tom Voyce, went missing in Northumberland, prompting a large-scale search operation. Authorities fear that Voyce, 43, may have tragically lost his life after being swept away by the powerful currents of the River Aln during Storm Darragh.

The Search for Tom Voyce

On Sunday, Northumbria Police launched a search operation after Tom Voyce failed to return home following an evening out with friends. Authorities suspect that Voyce attempted to cross Abberwick Ford, near Alnwick, in his car but was pulled into the river by the fast-moving current.

tom voyce


Ongoing Search Efforts

Although the police have managed to recover the vehicle, they believe that Tom Voyce was tragically swept away as he tried to escape. A spokesperson for Northumbria Police confirmed, “It is believed that, in his attempts to flee, he has been carried away by the current and sadly passed away.”

A major search effort is underway to locate Tom Voyce, involving a coordinated response from various authorities. Specialist officers from Northumbria Police’s Marine Section, alongside drones, dog handlers, and the National Police Air Service, have been mobilized. In addition, two Mountain Rescue teams from Northumberland have joined forces with the police in an effort to locate the missing former rugby star.

tom voyce

Tom Voyce’s family, including his wife Anna, has expressed their gratitude for the support they have received from local communities, volunteers, and the emergency services. The rugby community has also rallied around his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

Difficult Conditions Delay Recovery Efforts

Search teams are facing a number of challenges due to severe weather conditions brought on by Storm Darragh. The river’s water levels have risen significantly due to heavy rainfall, making the search even more difficult. Chief Superintendent Helena Barron from Northumbria Police commented, “This is an extremely tragic situation, and our thoughts are with Tom’s family. We continue our efforts, but the conditions, including the powerful river currents, are making it very challenging to recover Tom.”

tom voyce

Northumberland Fire Service played a critical role in securing Voyce’s car to the riverbank but has since been stood down from the operation.

Tom Voyce’s Rugby Legacy

Tom Voyce, a former England international, was widely regarded as a skilled and dependable rugby player. Capped nine times for England between 2001 and 2006, Voyce enjoyed a distinguished career with Wasps, Bath, and Gloucester before retiring in 2013. After his retirement, Voyce moved to Alnwick in 2020, where he became an integral part of the community.

Tributes Pour In from Rugby Community

As the search continues, the rugby community has expressed their deepest sympathies and support for Tom Voyce’s family. England Rugby issued a statement saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Tom Voyce during this incredibly difficult time.” Gloucester Rugby, where Voyce played for several years, said they were “desperately saddened” by the news of his disappearance, while Bath Rugby shared their heartfelt condolences, offering their “thoughts and prayers” to his loved ones on social media.

The Ongoing Search for Tom Voyce

The search for Tom Voyce is ongoing, and authorities continue to face challenging conditions as they search for the former rugby star. Volunteers, law enforcement, and local communities are all working together in the hope of finding him, even as the rugby world fears the worst. Tom’s legacy as a talented and humble player continues to inspire his fans, teammates, and those who knew him.


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