The Worcester Journal of 250 years ago carried an obituary with a difference.

"On Thursday last died, aged 90, Mr Thomas Bird of the Parish of Claines. He was formerly a rope maker but, having acquired a handsome fortune, left off business and lived very much as a recluse.

"It is remarkable that he died in the same room where he was born and never lay out of it, but for two nights, in his whole life. Neither had he been known to be at any Place of Worship for these 40 years past, except at such times as the bells wanted new roping.

"About two months before he died, he made his Will and left his whole Substance to his house-keeper, except for a Barrel of Ale which he ordered should be drunk at his funeral. But one day, having a mind to taste the ale to judge whether it was likely to be fit for the purpose, he found it had such an effect upon him that he grew better and lived to see it quite out, yet, still persuaded he should not live long, he had another barrel brewed, which was tapped and drunk by the persons who attended his funeral on Saturday evening.

"Shortly before his death, he asked to count his treasure but afterwards seemed very indifferent where he died or lived. About two hours before his death, he ordered his coffin to be made as speedily as possible but before it was quite finished, his corpse was ready for it."