Fish and chips key to a long life, says world’s oldest man

A BRITISH great-grandfather who recently became the world’s oldest man has said his weekly fish and chips are the key to his longevity.

John Tinniswood, aged 111, said his long life is largely down to consuming the British staple meal and taking “everything in moderation”.

The World War II veteran, who lives in a care home in Southport, Merseyside, took the title this week following the death of 114-year-old Juan Vicente Perez, from Venezuela.

Guinness World Records met Mr Tinniswood yesterday to present him with his certificate. On finding out he was the world’s oldest man he said: “Doesn’t make any difference to me. Not at all. I accept it for what it is.”

Mr Tinniswood was born in 1912, the same year the Titanic made its maiden voyage. He met Queen Elizabeth II twice, and was sent a birthday card from King Charles and Queen Camilla last year. He will turn 112 on Aug 2 and said his wedding to Blodwen Tinniswood, in 1942, was his most precious memory. They met at a dance during the Second World War and were married for 44 years until her death in 1986.

When asked what his secret to becoming a super-centenarian was, Mr Tinniswood told “Moderation in all things and keep on moving about. To sit down in a chair all day is no good.”

In 2019 he told “Fish and chips have got to be my favourite dish, it’s always been such a treat, and I think looking forward to my next visit to the chippy has kept me young. I feel the same now as I did when I was in my 80s, nothing has changed really.”

He added: “Now I get to have my favourite once a week here so I always look forward to a Friday.”

John Tinniswood, 111, enjoys his favourite dish every Friday in his care home