Ruth Badger praised the work of hospice staff

Ms Badger agreed to the specially created role at Compton Hospice after experiencing first-hand the care given to family members.

The 27-year-old, who came runner-up in Sir Alan Sugar's BBC competition, will help raise funds for the hospice.

"I want to remind people that charities still have to operate in business terms," she said.

I may come across as a tough cookie but I couldn't do the job that the dedicated staff at the hospice do Ruth Badger

"Profit and loss is just as relevant to the hospice as it was to Sir Alan."

She said she would be joining in planned sponsored activities like abseiling and fire walking, but would also "get cracking" on urging businesses to help out.

The hospice provides palliative care for hundreds of patients both at its site in Compton Road West and in people's homes as well as respite care.

"I may come across as a tough cookie but I couldn't do the job that the dedicated staff at the hospice do. I admire them so much," Ms Badger said.