PAIf you’re worried about whether you’re going to live to a ripe old age or about how you’re going to make that happen, look no further.
England’s oldest man has just what you need: advice on how to live to 111 years old, and it’s much simpler than you probably think.
Forget eating healthily or following a strict exercise regime, Bob Weighton says all you need to do is avoid dying. Who knew?!
PAAs reported by ITV News, Bob is celebrating his 111th birthday today (March 29) at his retirement flat in Alton, Hampshire.
Born in Hull in 1908 and formerly a teacher and engineer, Bob says that although the world has changed ‘enormously’ in his lifetime, the people in his life have mostly stayed the same.
The 111-year-old had three children (two sons and a daughter), 10 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren but says he doesn’t like too much fuss on his birthday.
He explained:
I do not like the attention. I quite like meeting people I have never seen before, that’s one of my delights. I like meeting people who have been places and have some understanding of what it means to be human.
Despite being the oldest man in England, Bob still shops and cooks for himself; he regularly goes to the local supermarket using his walking aid, which now has a shiny new number plate ‘Bob 111’ to mark his landmark age.
When asked about his secrets, Bob explained:
By avoiding dying – there’s no reason otherwise.
I have had the usual scares, flu, influenza, malaria, two or three operations; I ought to be dead but I am a survivor, if you like.
PANow he’s reached the 111 mark, Bob has requested not to get a birthday card from the Queen anymore because he’s received enough as it is.
He said:
I do not see why the state should pay for the Queen to send out all these things, it’s not a personal thing. I thought that’s enough, but I might consider another one next year if I live that long.
As per Sky News, Bob shares his birthday and age with the UK’s other oldest man Alfred Smith, from St Madoes in Scotland.
Happy birthday to Bob and Alfred!
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A Broadcast Journalism Masters graduate who went on to achieve an NCTJ level 3 Diploma in Journalism, Lucy has done stints at ITV, BBC Inside Out and Key 103. While working as a journalist for UNILAD, Lucy has reported on breaking news stories while also writing features about mental health, cervical screening awareness, and Little Mix (who she is unapologetically obsessed with).