World's oldest person celebrates her 117th birthday: Ethel from Surrey shares the secret to a long life (having lived through six monarchs and 28 Prime Ministers)

Ethel Caterham, the world’s oldest living person, celebrated her 117th birthday at her care home in Lightwater, Surrey, surrounded by family and friends. Born on August 21, 1909, in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, she grew up in Tidworth, Wiltshire, as the second youngest of eight siblings. Her sister, Gladys Babilas, also achieved centenarian status, reaching 104 years old. Mrs. Caterham’s remarkable lifespan includes witnessing major historical events such as two world wars, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the first Moon landing, and the fall of the Berlin Wall. She continued driving until the age of 97 and survived the global pandemic in 2020. Mrs. Caterham’s longevity has spanned six British monarchs and 28 prime ministers. She became the oldest living person in April 2025 following the passing of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas, who lived to be 116. During a visit to her care home in September 2024, King Charles III met with Mrs. Caterham, who was then celebrating her 116th birthday. The encounter included a moment where the king held her hand as he introduced himself. Mrs. Caterham recalled the 1969 investiture of Charles as the Prince of Wales, noting how young women were captivated by him at the time. Born just days before the United States dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945, Mrs. Caterham was nearly 36 when the devastating event occurred. Three days later, the second atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, resulting in over 226,000 deaths combined. By the time she turned 54, she witnessed the assassination of U.S. President John F. Kennedy in 1963. In 1969, as she neared her 60th birthday, she watched Neil Armstrong take the first steps on the Moon, an achievement that captured the attention of millions worldwide. The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked another significant chapter in her life. At the time, Mrs. Caterham was 80 years old, having lived through the division of East and West Berlin since its establishment. She was among the few remaining subjects of King Edward VII, who reigned until 1910, making her one of the last individuals to have known him personally. Following Edward VII, she witnessed the reigns of George V, Edward VIII, George VI, Queen Elizabeth II, and now King Charles III. Throughout her life, Mrs. Caterham remained active and engaged. She stopped driving at the age of 97 but continued to participate in social activities. Her resilience during the pandemic demonstrated her enduring strength. In recent years, she has embraced new experiences, including meeting the King and even stroking a llama. These moments, described by her as “firsts,” highlight her ability to remain connected to the world despite her advanced age. As she looks ahead to future celebrations, Mrs. Caterham expressed optimism about what lies ahead. Her journey through history, personal milestones, and close encounters with world leaders underscores the extraordinary nature of her existence. With her legacy firmly rooted in both personal and collective memory, Ethel Caterham continues to inspire admiration and curiosity around the globe.