Arthur Aspinall, recognised as England's oldest man, has died peacefully at his home in Bolton at the age of 109. Born on 13 October 1916, he lived through the reigns of four British monarchs and the terms of 24 prime ministers.
Mr Aspinall was the last surviving British man born in 1916 and, at the time of his death, was the second-oldest man in the United Kingdom behind Scotland's Hugh Kerr. His age was validated by LongeviQuest in February 2026.
He dedicated his working life to the family forging business, joining at 14 and retiring in 2006 at the age of 90. In 1944 he married Constance Nellie Cheadle, with whom he had two children, Heather and Marcus. Constance died in 1963, and Heather predeceased him in October 2025.
Mr Aspinall is survived by his son Marcus, eight grandchildren, and further descendants. His grandson David Aspinall paid warm tribute, highlighting his grandfather's formative influence and steady character.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
