An Indonesian man who claims to be the longest living human in recorded history has described how he “just wants to die”. Mbah Gotho, from Sragen in central Java, was born on December 31, 1870, according to the date of birth on his identity card. Now officials at the local record office say they have finally been able to confirm that remarkable date as genuine.

If independently confirmed, the findings would make Mr Gotho a staggering 145 years old – and the longest lived human in recorded history. But despite his incredible longevity, Mr Gotho says he has little wish to remain on this earth much longer. “What I want is to die. My grandchildren are all independent,” he told local media this week. CONTINUE