Tom Voyce’s wife Anna has issued a heartbreaking statement after the ex-international rugby player tragically lost his life after being carried away by a swollen river last weekend.
The 43-year-old former wing’s vehicle was swept off while crossing a ford in the River Aln near Alnwick, Northumberland, amid Storm Darragh.
His body was discovered downstream from the crossing point on Thursday after a major search effort.
Tom’s wife has expressed her profound grief and gratitude in a heartfelt statement following the overwhelming support from the community after her husband’s tragic disappearance.
She said: “Absolutely devastated and heartbroken doesn’t even describe how we feel. My main focus now is our son Oscar having done what he asked, ‘find Daddy’.
“I will be forever grateful to my brothers Hugh and Jamie, Aidan Philipson and Garry Whitfield for co-ordinating the search party working alongside the police teams.”
“Tom would be blown away by the amount of people that were out there helping. 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. Tom was fully immersed in Alnwick Rugby Club and was much loved by Oscar’s under sevens team which he coached with gusto, giving back to the game that gave him so much.
“Oscar is immensely proud of his daddy and he was the best father and role model that Oscar could have asked for. Tom was proud, and cherished his rugby memories and as an adopted ‘Northumbrian’ local he leaves a hole in so many of our hearts.
“With his big warm smile, passion and funny stories he loved nothing better than sitting round a table chatting with family and friends.”
During his distinguished career, Voyce achieved nine caps for England and was a pivotal player for Wasps between 2003 and 2009, contributing to their European and domestic triumphs. Voyce also represented Bath and Gloucester, amassing 220 Premiership games before retiring in May 2013.
Tributes for Voyce, including those from World Cup winners Matt Dawson and Lawrence Dallaglio, have been pouring in.
England head coach Steve Borthwick has paid his respects to the “wonderfully gifted” Voyce.
Remembering playing alongside Voyce for England, Borthwick remarked: “It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Tom Voyce, a wonderfully gifted rugby player and a truly lovely man.
“Tom left a lasting impact on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him and created memories that will stay with all who watched him play.
“On behalf of everyone at England Rugby, we extend our deepest condolences to Tom’s family, friends, and loved ones. Our thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time.”
