However, it will still charge a payment processing fee of 2.9%

Online giving platform GoFundMe has dropped the 5% fee it charged donors for using it.

It will, however, continue to charge a payment processing fee of 2.9%.

The US-based platform, which launched in the UK last year, said it now planned to rely on "voluntary tips" from donors to sustain its service.

Rob Solomon, its chief executive, said: "As we’ve rolled this new model out in the US, we've had a huge amount of positive feedback from our community.

"It’s a win-win move, and we think people in the UK will recognise the outstanding service we provide – and now we’re offering that service for free."

The move makes GoFundMe the only major fundraising platform not to charge a platform fee.

Crowdfunder and JusGiving charge 5% while Virgin Money Giving charges 2%.

JustGiving and Virgin fees are taken from the Gift Aid they claim on donations for the charity.

GoFundMe allows individuals and charities to set up fundraising campaigns.

JustGiving and Virgin Money Giving have paid-for facilities allowing charities to set up a page on their sites, receive money from others’ fundraising pages on the charity’s behalf and run multiple pages and campaigns.