Little Khagendra Thapa Magar is the world's smallest man - in waiting.

He can't wait until his 18th birthday in October when he can officially claim the title.

He and his family are so excited they are already in contact with Guinness to take the official crown from 2ft 5in He Ping Ping of China.

Magar, 17, stands just two feet tall and weighs only 10lbs.

The little fellow has become something of a celebrity in his native Nepal, where politicians have joined the clamour to see him recognised as the smallest man in the world.

His family have always known he was destined for great things, despite his size.

His mum, Dhana Maya Thapa Magar, said: "He was born weighing only 600 grams (1lb 5oz).

"It was like watching a newly hatched chick fresh from a shell.

"I admit that at first I was ashamed of him and would not leave the house, but now I only feel pride and am desperate for him to be named as the tinniest man in the world."

Although the cause of his size has never been medically confirmed, doctors in Nepal who have examined him believe he suffers from a malfunctioning pituitary gland.