A man who has just celebrated his 100th birthday is hoping to mark the incredible milestone by scuba diving in Lanzarote – and potentially making it into the Guinness World Records at the same time.

Modesto Villaverde, who turned 100 on Tuesday, 18th August, is a certified diver and retired Spanish policeman who has no intention of allowing his age to stop him enjoying his passion. His most recent dive was at the remarkable age of 96, when he went diving in the Red Sea.

Now, four years later, Villaverde has set himself an even bigger challenge: attempting to become the oldest scuba diver in the world.

According to his grandson, Guinness World Records has already accepted his application for the record attempt, which will have to meet a number of specific requirements.

The dive must take place in open water, reach a minimum depth of 12 metres, last for at least 30 minutes, and be witnessed by a qualified diving instructor.

Family wants record-breaking dive to take place in Lanzarote

Villaverde and his family have spent several weeks searching for a diving centre prepared to help make his dream a reality.

Their preferred destination is Lanzarote, and the family says that a diving centre in Playa Blanca has already indicated that it is willing to support the proposed dive, which is expected to take place in September or October.

However, they have also been in discussions with diving organisations in Egypt and the Middle East, where Red Sea diving authorities are reportedly already helping them search for a suitable operator.

Despite the international interest, Villaverde's family says their priority is for the record attempt to happen in Spain.

They explained that they want to see a Spaniard making history at home at the age of 100, but whether the attempt ultimately takes place in Lanzarote will depend on receiving the necessary local support.

If everything comes together, Lanzarote's waters could soon provide the setting for an extraordinary world record attempt – and a very memorable way for Modesto Villaverde to celebrate turning 100.