The world’s oldest living person, British woman Ethel Caterman, celebrated her 116th birthday today.

Caterham, who lives in a care home facility in Lightwater, Surrey, was officially recognised as the oldest living person in April following the death of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canbarro Lucas, aged 116.

Born on 21 August 1909, she is said to be the last surviving subject of King Edward VII. His great-great-grandson, Charles III, sent Mrs Caterham a card to mark her 115th birthday in 2024, as per the BBC.

A statement released by her care home said: “Ethel and her family are so grateful for all of the kind messages and interest shown to her as she celebrates her 116th birthday this year.

“Ethel will spend the day quietly with her family so that she can enjoy it at her own pace. Thank you again for your kind wishes on this special day.”

The oldest person who ever lived on record, post-biblical literature, is reported to be a French woman named Jeanne Louise Calment, who lived to be 122 years after passing in 1997.