‘Michael was a bright candle’

His dad Paul said: "We regard his untimely departure as the good Lord borrowing him for his special services elsewhere.

He will always be remembered for his courage and determination, entering unknown territory.

"His spirit will live on in all of us."

Michael James Blakey, or Mike to his friends, was born in 1983 at Burnley General Hospital.

He grew up very close to his elder brother Christopher, 25, and the pair both went to St John's Cub and Scout group, St Paul's Primary School and St Theodore's secondary school in Burnley together.

After A-levels, Michael left home to go to University College of Wales, Swansea, where he graduated with a first-class honours degree in development studies.

Paul said: "Chris always looked after his little brother through their happy early years.

"They grew up to be very close.

"Then the time came for Mike to go it alone at University in Swansea.

"After a very daunting start, Michael very quickly carved himself a special way of life via the church and chaplain.

"He quickly gelled with new friends, helping people in many ways.

"He was involved in many activities, including helping out at the refugee centre, whilst at the same time studying at university - culminating with a first class honours degree in development studies."

After graduating Michael worked with a company in Swansea before going out to Dharamsala.

His dad added: "He had a great love of music both listening and playing guitar and piano.

"His great interest in photography led him to an outdoor way of life.

"He leaves behind many great photographs, which will be treasured and serve to portray some of his life.

"He loved to walk and Hurstwood forest and reservoir was one of his favourite walks locally.

"His spirit will always be there.

"He met his friends and contacts in the Tong Len charity, where he achieved so much in a very short time."

Paul said Michael had worked "tirelessly" to help poverty-stricken refugees in India.