World's oldest man dies in Merseyside

The world's oldest man has died aged 112, his family has announed. John Tinniswood, from Southport, became the oldest man in the world this year.

A lifelong Liverpool supporter, John became the world’s oldest living man after the death of Juan Vicente Pérez Mora at the age of 114. In April he was officially recognised as the world’s oldest man by the Guinness Book of Records.

In a statement released this morning, John's family said: "We are saddened to inform you that John Alfred Tinniswood died peacefully on Monday (November 25) aged 112, at his care home in Southport. His last day was surrounded by music and love.

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"John always liked to say thank you. So on his behalf thank you to all those who cared for him over the years, including his carers at the Hollies Care Home, his GPs, district nurses, occupational therapist and other NHS staff. John’s life was one surrounded by love.

Born on August 26, 1912 to Ada and John Bernard Tinniswood, he went on to marry his late wife, Blodwen Tinniswood, and they had a daughter, Susan. He leaves his daughter, grandchildren Annouchka, Marisa, Toby and Rupert, and great-grandchildren Tabitha, Callum and Nieve.

His family's tribute continued: "John had many fine qualities. He was intelligent, decisive, brave, calm in any crisis, talented at maths and a great conversationalist. These served him well during his military service in the Royal Army Pays Corps during the second world we and also in the UK energy sector, where he served for 43 years first as an accounts clerk, then as a manager and accountant.

"John had an active retirement volunteering as a church elder in Blundellsands United Reform Church where he used to enjoy giving sermons. He also enjoyed walking in Merseyside well in his late nineties.

"John moved to the Hollies Rest home just before his 100 birthday and his kindness and enthusiasm for life were an inspiration to the care home staff and his fellow residents. His many interests included current affairs and sport including football and racing. He was so happy to learn how well Liverpool Football Club were doing.

"In recent years John became famous for his longevity after becoming first the UK’s oldest man in 2020 and later recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s oldest man in April 2024. We would like to thank the many people in the UK and across the world who sent well wishes to John on his recent birthdays. He really appreciated these birthday greetings and other messages of support.

"John was a much loved member of the Liverpool, Southport and Sefton communities who we thank for their support to him over the years. We would like to request that people rather than sending flowers consider making a donation to Age UK or their chosen charity in his memory. We would also like to ask that his family and care home’s privacy are respected at this difficult time. Thank you for your understanding."