John Tinniswood, the world’s oldest living man, marked his 112th birthday today, sharing his surprising weekly tradition of enjoying battered fish and chips every Friday, Sky News reports.
Born in Liverpool on August 26, 1912—the same year the Titanic sank—Tinniswood has captured the world’s attention since he was recognized as the oldest living man in April.
When asked about the secret to his remarkable longevity, Tinniswood attributed it to “just luck.”
“I can’t think of any special secrets I have. I was quite active as a youngster; I did a lot of walking. Whether that had something to do with it, I don’t know. But to me, I’m no different [to anyone],” he said.
Living in a care home in Southport, Tinniswood expressed surprise at his long life.
“I just take it in my stride like anything else; why I’ve lived that long I have no idea at all,” he added.
Besides his beloved fish and chips, he does not adhere to any strict dietary regimen.
Having lived through both World Wars, Tinniswood is not only the oldest living man but also the oldest surviving male veteran of World War II. His military service included an administrative role with the Royal Army Pay Corps, where he organized food supplies and located stranded soldiers.
After his military career, Tinniswood transitioned to a corporate role as an accountant for Shell and BP, retiring in 1972. He met his late wife, Blodwen, at a dance in Liverpool, and they shared 44 years of marriage until her passing in 1986. The couple welcomed a daughter, Susan, in 1943, and Tinniswood is also a grandfather of four and great-grandfather to three.
A lifelong supporter of Liverpool FC, Tinniswood has witnessed all eight of the club’s FA Cup victories and 17 of their 19 league title wins.
“It’s no better in my opinion, or hardly any better than it was then. Probably in some places it is, but in other places, it’s worse,” he observed when reflecting on changes throughout his life.
Since turning 100 in 2012, Tinniswood has received a birthday card each year from the late Queen Elizabeth II, a tradition that has now been passed on to King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
While he enjoys the title of the oldest living man today, Tinniswood is still four years shy of breaking the record for the oldest man ever, held by Japan’s Jiroemon Kimura, who lived to 116 years and 54 days before passing in 2013. Currently, the title of the oldest living person is held by Japan’s 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka.
