'World's Tallest Man' Dies From Growth Sickness At The Age Of 26

A man believed to be the tallest in the world has died after being plagued by an illness linked to his fast growth rate. Pornchai Saosri, who measured 8ft 8ins, died aged 26 at his family home in Ban Takaeo village in the Prasat district of Thailand. Nicknamed 'Oaf' by his family, he had recently been hospitalised and was bedridden as he battled a number of illnesses.

He was said to be the world's tallest man but was never given the official title because health problems meant he was unable to stand straight and had to be measured sitting down, it has been reported.