John Tinniswood, the world’s oldest living man, celebrated his 112th birthday on August 26th, attributing his longevity to nothing extraordinary.

Born in Liverpool in 1912, the lifelong Liverpool FC fan, now residing in a Southport care home, became the world’s oldest living man in April following the passing of 114-year-old Juan Vicente Pérez Mora.

“I have no idea at all why I’ve lived so long,” Tinniswood told Guinness World Records. “I can’t think of any special secrets I have.” He acknowledged being “quite active as a youngster” and doing “a lot of walking” but believes his lifestyle is no different from anyone else’s. “You either live long or you live short, and you can’t do much about it,” he added.

Tinniswood, born the year the Titanic sank, has witnessed significant historical events, including both World Wars. He served in the Army Pay Corps during World War II, organizing food supplies and locating stranded soldiers, making him the world’s oldest surviving male WWII veteran. He married his wife Blodwen in 1942, and they enjoyed 44 years together before her passing in 1986. After the war, he worked as an accountant for Shell and BP, retiring in 1972.

Despite his remarkable age, Tinniswood maintains a simple lifestyle. He doesn’t follow any specific diet, saying, “I eat what they give me, and so does everybody else. I don’t have a special diet.” He does, however, enjoy a portion of fish and chips every Friday.

Since turning 100, Tinniswood has received an annual birthday card from the monarch, starting with Queen Elizabeth II and continuing with King Charles III.

When asked about the world’s changes since his childhood, Tinniswood believes it’s “no better in my opinion, or hardly any better, than it was then.” He acknowledges improvement in some areas but believes it’s worse in others.

The oldest man ever was Jiroemon Kimura from Japan, who lived to 116 years 54 days before passing in 2013. The world’s oldest living woman and oldest living person is 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka of Japan.