A British woman, Ethel Catherham, celebrated her 117th birthday surrounded by family and close friends. She has become the first British woman in history to reach such a venerable age, reports infohub.kz.
The birthday girl lives in a care home in Surrey, near London. She spent the celebration with relatives and friends. Congratulations came from around the world, including from 113-year-old Brazilian Joao Marinho Neto, recognized as the world's oldest man.
Ethel Catherham was born on August 21, 1909, and in her lifetime has witnessed the reign of King Edward VII, two world wars, the sinking of the Titanic, and the coronavirus pandemic. At 18, the future record-holder moved to India, where she worked as a nanny. Later, she married Major Norman Catherham of the British Army. The couple lived in Hong Kong for a time before returning to the UK.
Ethel has outlived her husband and both daughters. Today, she has three granddaughters and five great-grandchildren. The title of the world's oldest person passed to her in April 2025 after the death of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas.
Ethel attributes her longevity to a calm approach to life and avoiding arguments. She has previously admitted that she never argues with anyone, always listens carefully to others, but ultimately does as she sees fit. Despite her record, the absolute world title still belongs to Frenchwoman Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122 years and 164 days.