In a written statement issued by a close friend on behalf of the family in Buncrana, Co Donegal, Andrea Brannigan said: "The family would like to express our thanks to all who have got in touch since receiving this awful news.

"As you can expect we are finding it very difficult at this trying time.

"We want to thank the Irish and British consulates, along with Colin from the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, and many friends who have assisted at this time. Danielle will be sadly missed by us all."

Christy Duffy, a close friend of Ms McLaughlin's from Buncrana, has already raised several thousand euro on a fundraising website to help pay for the funeral and repatriation costs.

"There's not really much anyone can say at the moment as I know we are all completely devastated," he said.

"There is nothing I need to say about Danielle as anyone who knew her, knew that she was a beautiful and kind-hearted, funny young lady who loved life and was a loyal and devoted friend, sister and daughter.

"They say the brightest stars burn the quickest and no other analogy could describe Danielle's life better."