Wife of former Springbok coach Peter De Villiers found dead in pool

The wife of former Springboks head coach Peter de Villiers has been found dead in a pool following an apparent drowning, according to multiple reports in South Africa.

The body of Theresa De Villiers (62) was found in a pool in the city of Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth - on South Africa's south coast.

According to reports, the deceased was found by a family member at a residence in the Fairview area of the city around noon and was declared dead at the scene by emergency first responders.

"The deceased is from Paarl, but was visiting family in Gqeberha. She was found in the pool by a family member. No foul play is suspected," said police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg. "The circumstances surrounding the drowning is under investigation."

De Villiers had been elected a councillor for the Good Party last year. The party released a statement on Twitter, saying: "GOOD extends its most heartfelt condolences to @CoachPdV, former SA rugby coach and GOOD Councillor, on the passing of his beloved wife. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. May strength, peace, love surround you as you and your family go through this difficult time."

The party leader, Patricia, later said in a statement: "On behalf of the GOOD Party, I extend our most heartfelt condolences to former SA rugby coach and GOOD Councillor, Peter de Villiers, on the tragic passing of his beloved wife. Mrs Theresa de Villiers passed away unexpectedly earlier today. May strength, peace, and love surround you and your family, Coach, as you go through this difficult time."

It is the second time tragedy has struck De Villiers, who lost his daughter to illness last year. Odille Monk was diagnosed with cancer in 2018 after doctors found a lump in her chest. The former Springbok coach was ever-present by her side during the illness and chemotherapy sessions.