One of the last people to speak to former city pub landlord Ivan Brown before his electrocution has paid tribute to his "determined and ambitious" friend. 

Roy Bassett was called by Mr Brown just days before his death in the foothills of the Himalayas in Dalhousie, India when he came into contact with a live wire after tripping while trying to take a photo.

Mr Bassett, who now lives in New Zealand, says the much-loved former Murderers landlord was his "usual cheerful self" and had an optimistic tone when he spoke of his trip.

He said the pair had been close friends for 56 years, sharing a love for travelling after working together at Unilever.

Norwich Evening News:

READ MORE: Son hopes for father's safe return after friend is electrocuted in India

Mr Bassett said: "I first met Ivan 56 years ago when I was working as a representative for a Unilever tea company. 

"Ivan also wanted to be a 'rep' so I helped him to achieve that first step in his career path.

"We became very close friends in those early years and I really got to know Ivan as a person.

"He was a man of the highest integrity, he always displayed great empathy and he had a fierce determination and ambition.

"He also had a lovely personality that was warm and friendly."

Norwich Evening News:

Mr Bassett, who is now retired, added that his thoughts were with Mr Brown's family after the tragic event.

He added: "I believe a major turning point in Ivan's life was meeting his wife Jackie who provided the love and solid platform which enabled Ivan to propel toward the achievement of his business success.

"Ivan was always loyal to his friends and we always kept in touch by telephone even though I spend much of my life abroad. 

Norwich Evening News:

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"I am extremely grateful and fortunate for Ivan's loyal friendship and I will greatly miss him and his cheerful, infectious smile - a smile that brightened people's lives and helped to forge so many lasting friendships.

"God bless you Ivan and god bless Jackie and his family."