Is my Daphne ill?

My Daphne Pontica is looking a little unhealthy. Do I need to worry? I planted it about 7 years ago in a shady position and it has done really well until recently. The flowers have gone over and now it is losing it's leaves and bare patches are appearing. I know that evergreens sometimes look a little tired at this time of year but it has never looked this bad before. It's the only Daphne that I've ever had any luck with so I'd hate to lose it!