In a tragic turn of events, former England rugby international Tom Voyce is feared to have lost his life during the recent Storm Darragh flooding in Northumberland. The 43-year-old athlete, who played for prestigious clubs like Wasps, Bath, and Gloucester, went missing after an evening with friends on Saturday. As the search continues, the rugby community and local authorities have rallied to support Voyce’s family during this challenging time.
The disappearance of Tom Voyce
Tom Voyce, a native of Truro, Cornwall, had been residing in Alnwick since 2020. On Sunday, Northumbria Police initiated a search operation when Voyce failed to return home from a night out with friends. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance are deeply concerning, given the severe weather conditions brought on by Storm Darragh.
Authorities suspect that Voyce may have attempted to cross Abberwick Ford near Alnwick in his vehicle. The treacherous floodwaters are believed to have swept his car away, leaving the former rugby star in a perilous situation. Police have since recovered the vehicle, but tragically, there has been no sign of Voyce himself.
A spokesperson for Northumbria Police stated, “It is believed in his attempts to escape he has been swept away and tragically died.” This grim assessment has cast a somber shadow over the search efforts, which have been hampered by the aftermath of Storm Darragh.
Extensive search efforts and community support
The search for Tom Voyce has mobilized a wide range of resources and personnel. Northumbria Police has deployed its Marine Section, the National Police Air Service, drones, and dog handlers in a concerted effort to locate the missing rugby player. Additionally, volunteers from two Mountain Rescue teams based in Northumberland have joined the search, working alongside Voyce’s family and friends.
The challenging conditions at Abberwick Ford, which remains submerged under deep floodwaters, have complicated the search efforts. Ch Supt Helena Barron explained the difficulties faced by the search teams :
- Exceptionally heavy rainfall
- Significantly heightened river flow
- Dangerous water levels
Despite these obstacles, the community’s response has been overwhelming. Voyce’s wife, Anna, and his family have expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the support they’ve received from the police, friends, and the local community during this distressing time.
Tom Voyce’s rugby legacy
Tom Voyce’s disappearance has sent shockwaves through the rugby world, reminding many of his significant contributions to the sport. His career highlights include :
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| England Caps | 9 (2001-2006) |
| Clubs | Wasps, Bath, Gloucester |
| Retirement | 2013 |
Voyce’s talent on the field earned him nine caps for England between 2001 and 2006, solidifying his place in the nation’s rugby history. His versatility and skill made him a valuable asset to the teams he represented throughout his career.
The rugby community has united in support of Voyce and his loved ones during this difficult time. England Rugby expressed their solidarity, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Tom Voyce at this extremely challenging time.” Similarly, Gloucester Rugby described the news as “desperately sad,” while Bath Rugby shared their “thoughts and prayers” for Voyce’s family and friends.
The impact of Storm Darragh
The disappearance of Tom Voyce has highlighted the devastating impact of Storm Darragh on the Northumberland region. The storm brought unprecedented rainfall and flooding, transforming familiar landscapes into treacherous waterways. Abberwick Ford, near Bolton, Northumberland, where Voyce is believed to have encountered difficulty, remains submerged under deep floodwaters.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of heeding weather warnings during severe storms. Local authorities have emphasized the need for caution when traveling in flood-affected areas, urging residents to avoid attempting to cross flooded roads or fords.
As the search for Tom Voyce continues, this tragic event has brought communities together, showcasing the strength of human compassion in the face of adversity. The outpouring of support for Voyce’s family echoes the spirit of unity often seen in the rugby world, extending far beyond the boundaries of the pitch.
In times of crisis, communities often find solace in shared experiences and cultural landmarks. While the search for Tom Voyce continues in Northumberland, it’s worth noting that across England, there are places of historical significance like Salisbury Cathedral that stand as enduring symbols of resilience and hope, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit in challenging times.
As the Northumberland community and the wider rugby world await further news, the memory of Tom Voyce’s contributions to the sport and the tragic circumstances of his disappearance serve as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of community support in times of need.
- Man admits guilt in deadly Salisbury hit-and-run crash - January 15, 2025
- Salisbury resident on trial for alleged assault and strangulation charges - January 14, 2025
- UK freezing temperatures : New snow warning issued as Arctic blast hits Britain - January 13, 2025
