Japan's oldest twin dies

One of the world's oldest twins who became a celebrity in her native Japan has died.

Gin Kanie was one-hundred-and-eight and had been in poor health since her sister, Kin Narita, died last year.

In the past ten years the twins regularly appeared on Japanese television and were celebrated for their vitality and wit.

They were accorded the status of national treasures two years ago.

The average life expectancy in Japan is the highest in the world for both sexes.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service