Ananova:

Chinese man Bao Xishun has lost his title as the world's tallest man to a Ukrainian who is EIGHT inches taller.

Leonid Stadnik, a 36-year-old vet from the village of Podolanci in the Ukraine, is now officially recognised by the Guinness Book of Records.

Measuring eight feet and five inches he has eclipsed the record previously held by 56-year-old Xishun.

Stadnik's growth spurt started at age 14 after a brain operation apparently stimulated his pituitary gland, which produces the human growth hormone.

He had previously said he did not want the title of the world's tallest man or to feature in the Guinness Book of Records as a freak.

He said he was not proud of being so tall and that it had brought him nothing but problems, including having trouble finding a girlfriend.

He has been declared an invalid by authorities after doctors said his huge height is causing him serious health problems.