Body found in river confirmed as missing rugby star

The wife of former England rugby star Tom Voyce said she has been “absolutely devastated and heartbroken” following his death.

A body found in an area in Northumberland flooded during Storm Darragh has been confirmed as that of the missing 43-year-old.

The former England international was reported missing on Sunday and police believe he tried to cross Abberwick Ford, near the village of Bolton, in a vehicle which was then pulled along by the current.

Anna Voyce paid tribute to her husband and said: “My main focus now is our son Oscar having done what he asked, ‘find Daddy’.”

Northumbria Police confirmed on Thursday its Marine Unit had discovered a body near Abberwick Mill, following a large-scale search.

“Tom would be blown away by the amount of people that were out there helping,” Mrs Voyce said.

“We have all been overwhelmed by the support of friends, many travelling from far afield to help with the search.

“We are just so lucky to live in such a special community that pulled together to find Tom.”