Body found in search for former England rugby union player Tom Voyce in Northumberland

A body has been found in the search for former England rugby player Tom Voyce.

The 43-year-old was believed to have been swept away while trying to cross a ford on the River Aln, near Alnwick, in Northumberland, in his car on Saturday (7 December).

Northumbria Police confirmed on Thursday afternoon that a body had been found by specialist officers from the force's marine unit in the river near Abberwick Mill.

Formal identification is yet to take place but the Cornwall-born sportsman's next of kin have been notified and are currently being supported by specialist officers.

Mountain rescue teams, the National Police Air Service, drones and dog handlers have all been involved in the search effort.

Chief Superintendent Helena Barron, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an extremely sad development and our thoughts very much continue to be with Tom’s loved ones.

“I would like to thank all of our officers, partners and volunteers for their assistance throughout the searches which have been conducted in very challenging circumstances.

“We would continue to ask that people respect the family’s privacy at this time.”

Officers do not believe there to be any third-party involvement and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

On Wednesday, teams waded through the River Aln and scoured its banks while officers from the coastguard used a dinghy, accompanied by a trained dog, to search the water.

The alarm was raised on Sunday morning when Voyce had not returned home following an evening with friends.

It is understood Voyce’s Toyota Hilux was recovered from the river at least 15m downstream from the ford.

Police previously said they believed he was swept away while trying to escape his vehicle.

Since news of the former England winger and full-back's disappearance was confirmed, the world of rugby has expressed its shock and sadness.

Northumbria Police previously said Voyce’s wife Anna and all his family were grateful for everyone’s efforts to find him.

Voyce won nine caps for England during his career and spent six years at Wasps, from 2003 to 2009, where he helped them win European and domestic titles, moving there from Bath and then leaving to join Gloucester in 2009.

He made a total of 220 Premiership appearances before retiring in May 2013.

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