World’s Oldest Living Person Ethel Caterham Celebrates 117th Birthday
By Ndu Samuel
Ethel Caterham, recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living person, has celebrated her 117th birthday, becoming the first British person ever to reach the remarkable milestone.
Caterham, who was born on August 21, 1909, marked her birthday on Friday, August 21, 2026, surrounded by family and friends at her care home in Surrey, England. Guinness World Records confirmed that she is also the world’s oldest living woman.
Reflecting on her extraordinary year, Caterham shared a message with ABC News, expressing appreciation for the numerous birthday wishes she has received.
“Thank you for all of the kind birthday wishes. Even at 117, I’ve had many firsts this year, from stroking a llama to holding hands with the King!” she said.
One of the highlights of her 116th year was meeting King Charles III, who visited her in September 2025. During their encounter, Caterham recalled watching his investiture as Prince of Wales in 1969 and even joked that many girls had been in love with him at the time.
Caterham became the world’s oldest living person in 2025 following the death of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas. She has since continued to break longevity records, becoming the first Briton to reach both 116 and 117 years of age.
Born in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, Caterham was the second youngest of eight siblings. She later lived and worked in India and Hong Kong before returning to England, where she raised her family.
At 117, Caterham remains five years short of the verified record for the oldest person ever, held by Frenchwoman Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122.
Her remarkable milestone has attracted international attention, with Guinness World Records describing her longevity as “truly historic” for Britain.
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