Former England rugby player Tom Voyce has sadly passed away after his car was swept away by floods in Northumberland in the aftermath of Storm Darragh.
“It is believed in his attempts to escape he has been swept away and tragically died,” said a police spokesperson.
Ch Supt Helena Barron said: “This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with Tom’s loved ones at this time.
“Our searches continue but we are dealing with very challenging circumstances in trying to recover Tom.
“This is down to the conditions, including the river flow and the level being significantly heightened due to the exceptionally heavy rain we experienced over the weekend.”
Northumbria Police have said that officers received a report on Sunday saying that the former rugby player had not returned home after an evening with friends on Saturday. He is alleged to have attempted to cross Abberwick Ford in his car, which was then pulled along with the current of the River Aln, about 3 miles (5km) from Alnwick.
The 43-year-old won nine caps for England during his career and in club rugby played for London Wasps, Bath, and Gloucester during a stellar club career.
More to follow…
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