The director of fundraising for St Giles Hospice has died while on a fundraising expedition for the charity in Vietnam.

Helen Relihan (pictured), who had worked at the hospice for nearly eight years, was taking part in the Vietnam Trek to help raise money for St Giles Hospice, when she fell ill on October 19.

Despite receiving medical attention, she passed away on November 3 according to a statement on the charity's website.

Relihan’s work with the hospice included the development of a number of fundraising initiatives which helped generate over £10m in income for the charity.

Staff, volunteers and supporters of the St Giles Hospice have paid tribute to Relihan, who was 51 years old at the time of her death.

Emma Hodges, chief executive of St Giles Hospice, said: "Everybody at St Giles is profoundly shocked and saddened at the news of the tragic death of a highly regarded, greatly respected and tremendously dedicated colleague.

"In her years as head of fundraising for our charity, Helen played an essential role in enabling St Giles to grow to meet the needs of the community we serve, and she provided a vital link between the hospice and our supporters throughout the local area.

"Her total commitment to furthering the cause of St Giles Hospice was typified by her determination to join the Vietnam Trek as a fundraiser. The fact that she has lost her life while participating in a charitable event that she was looking forward to so much is utterly heartbreaking.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Helen's partner and her family and we will be doing whatever we possibly can to support them during this incredibly difficult time."