Tom Voyce attempts to tackle George Smith while playing for England in Sydney in 2006. -AP
A former England rugby union international is believed to have died after going missing in a flood-affected area during a storm in northern England.
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Tom Voyce, 43, is suspected of having drowned after trying to drive through a ford on Saturday night, Northumbria Police said.
It is thought his car was swept away by the river's current. The car has been recovered by police, but Voyce is still missing.
"It is believed in his attempts to escape he has been swept away and tragically died," the police stated in a statement on Tuesday, as reported by British media.
A prolific tryscorer from wing or fullback, Voyce was part of an all-conquering Wasps team that did the Premiership and European Cup double in 2004.
He won nine England caps between 2001 and 2006, including two against Australia, and retired from the game in 2013.
"This is an extremely tragic incident, and our thoughts are very much with Tom's loved ones at this time," the police said.
"Extensive inquiries have been ongoing since concerns were raised for Tom, including deploying specialist teams to search for him."
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