A young Orpington woman, who was backpacking through Thailand, has died.

Political activist Christina Annesley, aged 23, passed away on the holiday island of Koh Tao, on Wednesday (January 21).

Reports suggest the former Leeds University history student died of natural causes.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We can confirm the death of a British National in Thailand on 21 January 2014.

"We are providing consular assistance to the family at this difficult time."

In the days leading up to her death, Ms Annesley had posted photos of her holiday on Twitter:

She had left Britain in January to spend four months backpacking around Thailand and Austrailia.

Ms Annesley had been part of the Tory party's youth wing, Conservative Future, before defecting to UKIP's Young Independence group in 2012 and rising to become vice-chair of its Yorkshire branch.

She had been affiliated with Conservative group the Young Britons' Foundation, who issued a statement on Thursday.

The organisation said: “I am sorry to inform supporters of the Young Britons’ Foundation that Christina Annesley has died while on holiday.

“Christina attended a number of YBF conferences having already achieved a level of notoriety for her strong libertarian views while at Leeds University.

“Christina was a wonderful girl of strong libertarian principles, who made great waves amongst all of us who were lucky enough to know her.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this tragic time.”

Hundreds of people have paid tribute to Ms Annesley on social media. 

Camden Conservative Deputy Chairman Oliver Cooper wrote: "Devastated by the sudden and untimely death of friend and freedom-fighter Christina Annesley. I didn't know anyone that didn't adore her. RIP."

Friend Victoria Monro wrote on the London Liberty League Facebook page: "There aren't words to do her justice or to tell you how inspiring she was to young people trying to help further a libertarian, or freedom-based, future.

"She was lively and likeable, friendly and supportive.

"Christina was a wonderful friend to Liberty League, attending our conferences, and being such a positive, welcoming and entertaining character. 

"She was principled, and true to her convictions - a rare trait.

"But more importantly than all of this, she was a strong, kind woman, with so much potential. She brightened up the room with her wit and charm." 

If you knew Ms Annesley and would like to pay tribute to her call the news desk on 01689 885726 or email harriet.collier@london.newsquest.co.uk