Peruvian farmer claims to be the world's oldest man as he 'celebrates 124th birthday' days after British pensioner John Tinniswood was declared official record holder at 111

A Peruvian farmer has made a play for the world’s oldest man title, claiming he is 124-years-old, just days after British pensioner John Tinniswood was declared the official record holder at 111.

Tinniswood, who credits fish and chips for his extraordinary longevity, was confirmed as the world’s oldest man following the death of Venezuelan national Juan Vicente Pérez last week at the age of 114.

However, the Peruvian government is now making a claim on behalf of an agricultural worker, who they claim was born in 1900.

Marcelino Abad Tolentino, who comes from the central region of Huanuco, lived off the grid until the government identified him in 2019 and provided him with ID and a pension.

The old man, known to locals as ‘Mashico’ reportedly celebrated his 124th birthday on 5 April, with pictures showing him being treated to a huge birthday cake, complete with a figurine in his likeness.

The old man, known to locals as ‘Mashico’ reportedly celebrated his 124th birthday on 5 April

John Tinniswood, aged 111 years and 222 days old, from Southport, Merseyside, UK is the oldest man living

He was treated to cakes and gifts at the Casa Hogar Mis Abuelitos care home in Cochachinche, where he now resides.

Tolentino, who was born in the small town of Chaglla, said the secret to his ripe old age is eating a healthy diet, rich in fruits and lamb meat.

He also likes to chew on coca leaves, a tradition among communities in the Andes.

Tolentino was orphaned when he was seven years old and never went to school.

He lived in rural areas and quickly learned ‘how to take advantage of the benefits of nature’, according to a Peruvian government statement.

They added: ‘Among the tranquillity of the flora and fauna of Huanuco, Marcelino Abad Tolentino – or ‘Mashico’ – developed a healthy way of life and inner peace, reflected in his good health and friendly personality.

‘This allowed him, with resilience and skill, to overcome 12 decades of life and on 5 April he blew out 124 candles.’

The authorities are helping Tolentino apply for the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest man, possibly dethroning Tinniswood.

Marcelino Abad Tolentino, who comes from the central region of Huanuco, lived off the grid until the government identified him in 2019

Abad now lives in a home for seniors, where for his birthday this month he was treated to a special celebration

The organisation is currently looking into the bid, but a spokesperson said: ‘Guinness World Records receives many applications from individuals who claim to be the oldest living person.’

Verifying the claim would involve official documents and other evidence being scrutinized by an expert team to ‘prove their achievement beyond doubt.’

If confirmed, Tolentino could also be crowned the oldest person ever, which currently stands at 122.

The oldest living woman is Spaniard Maria Branyas Morera at 117 years of age.

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