They call themselves the Old Dogs - a group of "born again skaters" who hit the skatepark before work - and before the site is crowded with a younger crew.

The group, that is aimed at adults, meets at 06:00 to skate before work at River Park in Winchester, Hampshire.

Most of the Winchester Old Dogs skated when they were younger and have returned to the sport later in life.

Noel Robins, 54, says it is a great way to start the day: "We're a bunch of older gentlemen that have all got a common love of skateboarding.

"We've all got day jobs and this is our release to clear our heads and have a laugh."

The crew say wearing safety gear is now a must even if it looks "a bit dorky"

Skater Mike Seren is 38 years old and joined the group a year ago: "As a kid we didn't wear the safety gear but now, as an adult, you learn the value of wearing pads. You think 'I don't care if I look a bit dorky'.

"I've lost like a stone and a half. There's not a lot of exercise that I'm willing to do in all fairness. But this - I'll skate and sweat and just go until your legs give up."

Adam Bryant joined the crew after suffering a period of bad health. "I had cancer three years ago," he explains.

"Realising that life is short, you've got to do things that are meaningful and fun and purposeful."

Skater Jake Ridley said: "What else are you doing at 06:00 in the morning?"

About 30 people attend sessions regularly.

At present the crew is entirely male but Robins hopes that will change: "We have had some ladies skate with us. We would definitely like some more. Everyone's welcome."

And explaining why he joins the group Jake Ridley says: "It's about getting up early, doing some exercise with like minded people and every session that you don't hit the concrete is a win."

"What else are you doing at 06:00 in the morning?"