<< Revered: The abbot has many followers who believe his advanced age makes him particularly wise

The Buddhist monk claims to be celebrating his 115th birthday today at a temple in Phuket, Thailand.

He is certainly likely to provide some hot competition for American Walter Bruening, 113, who has also laid claim  to the coveted title.

Luang Phu Supha's birth was only registered two years after he was born and the certificate reads 17 September 1896.
Henry Allingham

No doubts: Henry Allingham was the world's oldest man when he died earlier this year at 113

This would also made him older than Bruening - but only by four days.

The monks now intend to invite Guinness records representatives to verify their abbot's claim.

He puts his longevity down to eating less, speaking less and always speaking the truth.

Luang Phu Supha seems particularly serious about eating less and only consumes nine mouthfuls at each meal as well as avoiding spices and salts.

He is, however, partial to khao neaw kaew, a desert made of sticky rice with sugar.

Bruening, who celebrates his birthday on September 21, laid claim to the title after the death of  Briton Henry Allingham.

The World War One veteran died in July at the age of 113.

He had only held the title for a few weeks after the death of Tomoji Tanabe at 113 on June 19.

The world's oldest person - a woman - is Kama Chien, 114.