UK climber 'missing in Pakistan'

A British mountaineer has gone missing in northern Pakistan after attempting to climb a 20,000ft (6,096m) summit.

Ben Cheek, 28, of Manchester, began Shimshal Whitehorn in Northern Areas on 11 July, but failed to return four days later as planned.

He attempted the peak alone after he and a group failed to reach a 25,000ft (7,620m) peak in the same range.

The family of Mr Cheek, originally from Selkirk, Scottish Borders, are "very anxious", brother Tom, 33, said.

He added: "Ben has six years experience as a climber, but obviously we're extremely concerned for his safety."

The family had been told that a rescue helicopter would be scrambled on Friday morning to look for Mr Cheek, he added.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We are in touch with next of kin and the Pakistani authorities, and providing consular assistance to the family."