Jack Rogers, who made history as the world’s oldest columnist when he started writing for the Lincolnshire Echo at the age of 103, has died.

Jack, who had been ill for some time, celebrated his 106th birthday just weeks ago.

Jack’s first column appeared in the Echo on Thursday April 24, 1997, and his 75 subsequent contributions – over a two-year period – made him well-known and well-loved throughout the region.

Former Echo reporter Jason Mellor put together Jack’s memories for the paper and spent hours talking to the sprightly centenarian about his memories of war, changing lifestyles and historical events.

Jason recalled: “I went to visit Jack regularly for almost two years. He was a wonderful man who I feel privileged to have known.

“His memory was unique – he recalled every detail of every event with perfect clarity. But he was also a fantastic story-teller who brought to life each and every experience he described.

“Many things he told me still stick in my mind and tales of family holidays and early girlfriends will keep me chuckling forever.

“Jack was also a really modest person who was genuinely surprised people were so interested in him. I think it’s wonderful his memories are recorded in a permanent form – not only the factual details but the quirky tales and anecdotes.

“Jack was a great man. His personality crossed generations. I’m sad to see him go but know he’ll be remembered dearly forever.”

Born in London on March 21, 1894, Jack was trained as a shoemaker by his father and left school at 13 to help run the family business.

In 1914 he joined the Robin Hood Rifles, 7th Battalion Sherwood Foresters, and was captured by the Germans on his 24th birthday. He remained a prisoner of war until the end of World War One nine months later.

He served again in World War Two, and in 1998 he received the Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur – France’s most-coveted bravery award.

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