A former England rugby player is believed to have died after going into a river in his car in Northumberland.

Northumbria Police said officers received a report on Sunday morning that Tom Voyce, 43, who played for clubs including Bath and London Wasps, had not returned home after an evening with friends.

Northumbria Police said it is believed he attempted to cross Abberwick Ford in his car which has then been pulled along with the current of the River Aln, about 3 miles (5km) from Alnwick.

Police have since recovered the car but officers have not found Mr Voyce and it is believed he was carried away while attempting to escape and has died.

Chief Superintendent Helena Barron, from Northumbria Police, said: "This is an extremely tragic incident, and our thoughts are very much with Tom's loved ones at this time.

"Our officers continue to support his family and we would ask that their privacy is respected.

"Extensive inquiries have been ongoing since concerns were raised for Tom, including deploying specialist teams to search for him."

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

#united news#

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