The oldest surviving male on the planet has celebrated his 112th birthday – sharing the British dish he enjoys every Friday.
John Tinniswood came into the world in Liverpool on 26 August 1912, the same year the Titanic met its tragic fate. He earned the distinction of being the oldest living man since April.
When questioned about the secret to his remarkable lifespan, Mr. Tinniswood – residing in a care facility in Southport – attributed it entirely to “just luck.”
“I can’t pinpoint any unique secrets,” he remarked.
“During my youth, I was quite active, engaged in a great deal of walking. Whether that influenced my longevity, I couldn’t say. But honestly, I feel no different than anyone else. Not at all.
“I simply take life as it comes; why I’ve survived this long is beyond me.”
Pic: Guinness World Records
He elaborated that besides indulging in a serving of battered fish and chips each Friday, he does not adhere to any specific dietary regimen.
At the age of 112, Mr. Tinniswood has experienced both world wars and is recognized as the oldest living male Second World War veteran.
His professional background includes administrative duties with the Royal Army Pay Corps, where he managed logistical responsibilities, such as assisting stranded soldiers and coordinating food supplies, along with accounting and auditing functions.
Post-military service, he took on the role of an accountant for Shell and BP, retiring in 1972.
John Tinniswood as a younger man. Pic: Guinness World Records
He encountered his wife Blodwen during a dance in Liverpool, and they enjoyed 44 years of marriage until her passing in 1986.
The couple welcomed their daughter Susan in 1943. Mr. Tinniswood is also a proud grandfather of four and a great-grandfather to three.
As a dedicated supporter of Liverpool FC, he has witnessed all eight of the club’s FA Cup victories and 17 of their 19 league championship titles.
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When reflecting on the most significant changes in the world throughout his lifetime, Mr. Tinniswood commented: “In my perspective, it’s not much better now than it was back then. While there are improvements in some areas, in others, it’s become worse.”
Since reaching the milestone of 100 in 2012, he has consistently received a birthday card annually from the late Queen Elizabeth II, a tradition that has now shifted to the King and Queen Camilla.
Mr. Tinniswood is still four years shy of the record held by Jiroemon Kimura of Japan, who lived to the age of 116 years and 54 days before passing away in 2013.
The oldest living woman, and indeed the oldest person alive today, is a 116-year-old from Japan named Tomiko Itooka.
