THE best friend of a city man who died mountain-climbing says he was pursuing his dream of scaling the world’s tallest peak.

Zohara Multani, of Worcester, said Hyder Ali Manir was “the greatest, kindest and most humble friend, son, brother, colleague anyone could ever wish for, who will immensely be missed.

“He just wanted his parents to be proud of him.”

Miss Multani attended the city’s Sixth Form College with Mr Manir, whom she described as her best friend.

“I was in touch with him on Saturday before he went to Scotland.

“He said climbing Ben Nevis was he dream and he wanted to go up Mount Everest.”

Yesterday we published the text message Mr Manir sent to Miss Multani the night before he set off for Scotland.

It read: “I’m going to make my second video at Ben Nevis.

“This is my dream, it’s my passion and I know Everest is far out but I’ll go higher with each video and hopefully video 10 will be Everest.”

The 20-year-old former King’s School pupil went missing in blizzard conditions on the slopes of Ben Nevis after he was declared overdue at about 6pm on Sunday, January 30.

Following a massive search operation he was discovered a week later far from the main path, having apparently made the summit in poor visibility but later succumbing to the treacherous terrain and dire freezing weather conditions.

He had been studying civil engineering at the University of East London, and while in the capital had become a volunteer with the Muslim Youth Helpline helping young Muslims discuss life issues and problems.

Milad Ahmed, MYH’s head of support services, said he was “deeply shocked” to hear of the loss of Mr Manir who was “a joy to have around the office.

“He provided a listening ear to many young Muslims in need.

“We cannot make sense of such a young and energetic young person living for such a short time.

“He was also a nice guy and his sense of humour was much appreciated.

“I still remember him training with us just over a year ago, and I was personally looking forward to, along with a few other colleagues, running a 10km challenge with him in the summer.”