The boss of an animal sanctuary, who has been in a coma for more than a month following a freak fall at her home, has died.

Marion Eaton, 57, who set up Friend Animal Rescue in East Peckham 21 years ago, passed away last night.

Posting on a fundraising page set up after her accident, her husband Mark wrote this morning: "As many of you are now aware our beloved Marion passed away last night, she passed away peacefully.

"All my words are, and have been, said by the amazing outpouring of messages of love from all of you and for that I, and I am sure Marion, are completely blown away and grateful, I thank you so much.

"We have truly lost a warrior for the animals and I am devastated. I will soon hopefully write something about her absolute stunning life's work caring for animals.

"Marion's wishes are to have a big send off for her and really it will be an open funeral for she does deserve it.

"I am truly honoured to have been your partner Marion, really words cannot explain how much I am going to miss you but we will meet again and I really love you."

Mrs Eaton was rushed to King’s College Hospital, London, and put in an induced coma after falling down a flight of stairs at her East Peckham home on Monday, November 23.

The sanctuary looks after more than 100 animals, including pigs, cows and an alpaca, and relies entirely on donations for food, bedding, essential equipment and veterinary bills.

Friends set up a gofundme page to raise money to cover Mr Eaton's transport costs to the London hospital and help keep the sanctuary running.

The page has raised more than £3,000 so far and you can still donate here.