Tom Voyce: Wife of ex-England player shares tribute after death

Sure! Here’s a rewritten version of that blog section in casual language: "December 13, 2024, at 6:31 PM."

Tom Voyce's wife, Anna, expressed her deep sorrow after the passing of the former England rugby player in Northumberland last weekend.

On Thursday, Northumbria Police announced that a body was discovered near Abberwick Mill during the ongoing search for Voyce. He was reported missing after failing to return home following a night out with friends last weekend.

On Friday, the BBC announced that the remains have been identified as those of the missing 43-year-old.

In a statement released through the police, Anna Voyce expressed, "Right now, my priority is our son, Oscar, after fulfilling his request to 'find Daddy'."

Everyone in Tom's family took part in the search. I will always appreciate my brothers Hugh and Jamie, along with Aidan Philipson and Garry Whitfield, for organizing the search party and collaborating with the police.

Tom would be astonished by the sheer number of people actively participating and lending a hand. We have all been deeply moved by the outpouring of support from our friends, many of whom have come from great distances to assist in the search efforts.

"We are truly fortunate to be part of a remarkable community that came together to help locate Tom."

Earlier this week, authorities indicated that they believe Voyce's car was carried away while he was attempting to drive through a shallow river crossing during Storm Darragh.

Northumbria Police said: "The entire family wants to express their gratitude to the police, mountain rescue teams, and all the specialists who assisted in the search for Tom."

"We kindly request that you honor the family's need for privacy during this difficult time."

Voyce, who hails from Cornwall, kicked off his professional journey at Bath but achieved his greatest success while playing for Wasps, which was located in London at the time.

An impressive try scorer playing as a wing or fullback, Voyce was a key player in the dominant Wasps team that secured both the Premiership and European Cup titles in 2004. He contributed to their success in winning both championships again but was sidelined by injury and couldn't participate in their third European final victory.

Voyce represented England nine times from 2001 to 2006 and hung up his boots in 2013.