Tom Voyce: Body found in river confirmed as missing rugby star
Rugby Star's Wife Heartbroken Over His Death
Anna Voyce expressed that she had been deeply touched by the outpouring of support she received while searching for her husband, Tom.
The spouse of ex-England rugby player Tom Voyce expressed that the words "completely shattered and crushed" don't fully capture their emotions after his passing.
Authorities have confirmed that a body discovered in a flood-affected area of Northumberland during Storm Darragh belongs to a 43-year-old man who had been reported missing.
The ex-England international was reported as missing on Sunday. Authorities think he attempted to drive across Abberwick Ford, close to the village of Bolton, but the strong current swept his vehicle away.
Anna Voyce honored her husband by saying, "My priority right now is our son Oscar, fulfilling his wish to 'find Daddy'."
On Thursday, Northumbria Police announced that their Marine Unit had found a body close to Abberwick Mill after conducting an extensive search.
"Mrs. Voyce remarked that Tom would be amazed by the large number of people who showed up to lend a hand."
"We have been deeply touched by the outpouring of support from our friends, many of whom have traveled long distances to assist in the search."
"We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a unique community that came together to help locate Tom."
Tom Voyce hung up his rugby boots in 2013 and has been residing in Alnwick since 2019.
After moving from London to Northumberland in 2019, Mr. Voyce decided to leave his position at Investec and start his own company, Trevow Vegetation Management.
Mrs. Voyce shared, "Tom was deeply involved with Alnwick Rugby Club and was adored by Oscar's under-7 team, which he enthusiastically coached, giving back to the sport that had given him so much in return."
Oscar holds a deep sense of pride for his dad, who has been an incredible father and the perfect role model in his life.
It is thought that Mr. Voyce lost his life while trying to cross Abberwick Ford, located close to the village of Bolton in Northumberland, which had flooded as a result of Storm Darragh.
Alnwick Rugby Football Club expressed their profound sorrow over his passing.
The experienced players really appreciated his training sessions, and in recent times, he has started coaching the younger kids. I’m certain they will feel his absence greatly.
We are thinking of his wife Anna, their son Oscar, his mother Christine, sister Emily, and the entire family during this time.
"An exceptional rugby player and an even more outstanding individual."
Mr. Voyce, originally from Truro in Cornwall, had a career playing for Wasps, Bath, and Gloucester before he hung up his boots in 2013.
One of those honoring the individual is Steve Borthwick, the head coach of England.
He referred to Mr. Voyce as "an exceptionally talented rugby player and a genuinely nice person."
"Tom made a significant impression on everyone who had the joy of knowing him, leaving behind cherished memories for all who witnessed his performances," he expressed.
"Everyone at England Rugby sends heartfelt sympathies to Tom's family, friends, and loved ones. We are keeping them in our thoughts during this very challenging time."
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