“In their 80s” is a term that would almost always be used to describe a demographic, a

group, or a general population rather than an individual. So, whether an individual is

between 80.1 - 89.9, “in their 80s” would be an abnormal term to describe them.

• If an 89.9-year-old intended to trick people into thinking he is younger, he could tell them
he is in his 80’s.

• If an 80.1-year-old intended to trick people into thinking he is older, he could tell them he
is in his 80’s.

To say that Mr. Ashcroft is in his 80’s, knowing full well that Mr. Ashcroft has only just turned
80, is a sleight of mouth or conversational magic, clearly intended to make Mr. Ashcroft
magically appear older than he actually is, on this occasion, it was the sympathy card being
played.

To further add to this age sympathy deception, Mr. Ashcroft was weeping loudly, apparently
on the verge of an emotional breakdown, which would dramatically affect all that heard him
lament.