The rugby community is in mourning following the tragic loss of former England international Tom Voyce. The 43-year-old’s untimely death has left his wife, Anna Voyce, devastated and heartbroken. In this article, we delve into the circumstances surrounding his disappearance, the impact he made both on and off the field, and the outpouring of support from family, friends, and fans.
A life cut short: the disappearance of Tom Voyce
Tom Voyce, a celebrated figure in English rugby, went missing on Saturday during Storm Darragh. The ex-England player attempted to cross Abberwick Ford, a river swollen by heavy rainfall, in his Toyota Hilux. Tragically, the vehicle was swept away by the current of the River Aln, located approximately three miles from Alnwick in Northumberland.
Following his disappearance, a massive search operation was launched. The effort involved:
- Drones and helicopters
- Police officers
- Coastguard teams
- Mountain rescue units
- Friends and family members
Despite the challenging conditions caused by exceptionally heavy rain, search teams persevered. Sadly, on Thursday, Tom Voyce’s body was recovered near Abberwick Mill and formally identified by authorities.
A rugby legend remembered
Tom Voyce’s illustrious rugby career left an indelible mark on the sport. His achievements include:
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| England caps | 9 |
| Premiership appearances | 220 |
| Notable teams | Bath, Gloucester, Wasps |
| Titles | European and domestic titles with Wasps |
Former teammates and fellow rugby stars have paid tribute to Voyce’s talent and character. Mike Tindall, who played alongside him at Gloucester, praised Voyce’s ability to “punch above his weight” and described him as epitomizing rugby’s inclusivity. James Haskell, another ex-England star, remembered Voyce as “a teammate, a friend, and an incredible player.”
Even after retiring in May 2013, Voyce remained deeply connected to the sport. He coached the under-7’s team at Alnwick Rugby Club, sharing his passion and expertise with a new generation of players.
A family man and community pillar
Beyond his rugby accomplishments, Tom Voyce was a devoted husband and father. His wife, Anna, spoke of his role as the best father and role model for their son, Oscar. The family had relocated to Northumberland in 2019, where Voyce successfully transitioned into the business world while maintaining his ties to rugby.
Anna Voyce highlighted her husband’s warm personality and zest for life:
- His big, welcoming smile
- A passion for storytelling
- Love of entertaining family and friends
- Culinary skills, especially with his Big Green Egg barbecue
The Voyce family quickly became integral members of their new community. Tom’s involvement with Alnwick Rugby Club and his son’s team endeared him to locals, earning him the status of an “adopted Northumbrian.”
A community united in grief and support
The outpouring of support following Tom Voyce’s disappearance has been overwhelming. Anna Voyce expressed her gratitude for the tremendous effort put forth by search teams, friends, and community members. She noted that Tom would have been “blown away” by the number of people who came together to help find him.
The rugby community, both locally and nationally, has rallied around the Voyce family. Former teammates and opponents alike have shared memories and condolences, underscoring the deep bonds forged through the sport.
As the family navigates this difficult time, Anna Voyce’s primary focus is on supporting their son, Oscar. She emphasized the pride Oscar feels for his father and the lasting impact Tom had on his life. The memory of Tom Voyce – as a rugby star, coach, father, and friend – will undoubtedly continue to inspire and comfort those who knew him.
The tragic loss of Tom Voyce serves as a reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of community support in times of crisis. His legacy, both on and off the rugby field, will be cherished by family, friends, and fans for years to come.
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