Two of the oldest surviving quadruplets pass away at nearly 90

Two of the world's oldest living quadruplets passed away just weeks before turning 90. Ann, Ernest, Paul, and Michael were born to Walter and Doris Miles on 28 November 1935 in St Neots, Cambridgeshire. They became famous as the St Neots Quads and remained in the public eye for much of their lives.

The family shared the "very sad" news that Michael and Paul had died within nine days of each other last month. Ann and Ernest, along with their older brother Gordon Miles, who was two at the time of their birth, survive them.

Initially, their parents were expecting twins, but an X-ray revealed a third, and then a fourth baby arrived as a surprise. Born seven weeks early, three of the children weighed under 4lb (1.8kg), while Michael weighed less than 3lb (1.3kg). They were delivered by the local GP, Dr E H Harrisson, with the help of a district nurse and their mother, and were first cared for at the doctor's home to provide a warmer and safer environment.

The quads were the first British multiple-birth babies to survive beyond the first few days, immediately gaining celebrity status. To support their care, four specialist nurses from Great Ormond Street Hospital in London were sent to assist free of charge.

Local newspapers and community supporters raised funds to help the Miles family with the costs of raising four children. The family could visit the babies under strict hygiene rules, and Cow & Gate helped finance a nursery at their home in Ferrars Avenue, Eynesbury. Sponsorships and advertising deals added to the quads public profile throughout their lives.

During World War II, the quads appeared in newsreels atop military vehicles to support the war effort. Over the years, they continued to appear in photographs and media stories celebrating milestones and birthdays.

Michael Miles first worked at a motor company in St Neots, then served in the Army, and later lived in South Africa, retiring on a smallholding near Cape Town with his family. He passed away on 20 September, survived by his wife Joy and their two children.

Paul Miles trained as a boat builder in Cambridge and worked on jet aircraft frames during his National Service at RAF Bassingbourn. He later became a scientific instrument maker and enjoyed woodworking and painting in retirement. He died on 29 September 2025, leaving behind his wife Pat and their three children.

St Neots Museum has preserved the quads story, with photographs and personal items donated by the family. In a statement, older brother Gordon Miles said: "Our entire family is very sad to lose Michael and Paul. Their story is extraordinary. Back in 1935, no one could have imagined that premature quadruplets would survive so long. We are grateful they lived long, happy lives and raised their families. We will miss them."

The museums permanent exhibition now includes a christening gown and a historical interview with their mother, Doris Miles, celebrating the remarkable lives of the St Neots Quads.

Analysis: Reflecting on the Legacy of the St Neots Quads

The passing of Michael and Paul Miles marks the end of an era for one of Britain’s most remarkable multiple-birth families. Born prematurely in 1935, the quads became symbols of medical progress and community support, surviving against odds that few could have anticipated at the time.

Their story illustrates the intersection of medical innovation, public interest, and family resilience. Early intervention from local doctors and specialists from Great Ormond Street Hospital was critical in ensuring their survival, highlighting advances in neonatal care. Community fundraising and corporate sponsorship also played a pivotal role, demonstrating how collective support can shape individual lives.

Beyond their early fame, Michael and Paul led productive adult lives, contributing to local industry and family life. Their deaths, occurring just weeks apart, underscore the longevity of a generation that witnessed immense social and technological change over nearly nine decades. The preservation of their story at St Neots Museum ensures that future generations can appreciate both the challenges and achievements of the quads.

Ultimately, the legacy of the St Neots Quads is one of perseverance, public engagement, and historical significance. Their lives serve as a reminder of how extraordinary circumstances, combined with care and community support, can produce enduring human stories.

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• Two of oldest surviving quads die at almost 90