Derbyshire's amazing Jack Reynolds turns 108

Great-grandfather Jack, who lives in Hollingwood, is one of the UK’s oldest men.

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His daughter Jayne Goodwin paid a touching tribute to her dad on his big day.

She said: “My dad is one of the bravest, selfless and inspirational men ever.

“He takes everything in his stride and fights each hurdle without complaining.

“He has been my hero for as long as I can ever remember.”

Jack – who worked at Staveley Works for 40 years before retiring in 1975 – has several Guinness World Records under his belt.

He became the oldest person to get a tattoo at 104, the oldest to ride a rollercoaster at 105, the oldest to take on a zip wire at 106 and the oldest to be a supporting artist in a TV show at 107.

Jack has raised thousands of pounds for charity with his various challenges over the years – all while having the time of his life and capturing the hearts of millions of people right across the world.

For his 108th birthday, Jack wants to raise as much money as possible for Derbyshire charity Helen’s Trust, which has been helping to care for him recently.

You can donate via Jack’s JustGiving page – where he has so far raised nearly £1,400, smashing his target of £180.

Jayne added: “Dad’s charity challenges are amazing and right up to this present day is still raising money to help others.

“Due to present circumstances he will not be able to celebrate his birthday as lively and largely as usual but his doting family will try to make it as special as possible for him.”

Speaking to the Derbyshire Times previously, Jack urged people to ‘keep smiling’ during the current coronavirus crisis.

He also gave the secret to a long and happy life: “Work hard, always smile, get plenty of fresh air and last but not least have a tot of Grouse whisky in your tea in the morning and a tot before bed."

From everyone at the Derbyshire Times, a very, very happy birthday, Jack – you’re absolutely amazing.

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