Published: Wednesday, 30th July, 2008 09:00
Fears mount for missing climber
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FEARS were mounting yesterday for a Borders climber who went missing in mountains in northern Pakistan almost two weeks ago.
28 year-old Ben Cheek, originally from Selkirk, began his solo attempt on the 20,000 foot Shimshal Whitehorn on July, 11, despite advice from other climbers warning him not to embark on the climb alone.
The experienced mountaineer then failed to return from the summit as planned four days later.
Helicopter searches of the area by the Pakistani military have been restricted by poor weather and have failed to find any trace of the former Selkirk High School pupil.
His family have now appealed to any climbers in the Pakistan area to assist with the search.
In a statement, Mr Cheek’s family said: “There is a very grave and mounting concern among his family and friends, and within the climbing fraternity for Ben’s well being.”
The headstrong research biologist, who now lives in Manchester, decided to attempt the mountain alone after he and a group of three other climbers failed to scale a 25,000 foot summit in the same mountain range.
An online travel blog documenting the progress of one of Mr Cheek’s previous travel partners, Don Bowie, stated: “While Don traveled on to Karimabad with fellow climbers Bruce and Pete, Ben Cheek remained in Shimshal to make a solo ascent of the North Face of Shimshal Whitehorn Peak (6,500m) located above the town of Shimshal.
“Attempts to scale this peak have been few. As it stands, it has only been successfully summited twice. Ben and Bruce agreed to meet in Karimabad around July 19th.
“As of July 11th there hasn't been any sign of Ben since his departure from Shimshal town. Don has now travelled back to Shimshal to join Bruce and Pete in their efforts to locate Ben.
“Please keep the Cheek family, Bruce, Pete and Don and others in your prayers as they continue their search for Ben.”
abrown@bordertelegraph.com
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