A 93-year-old biking fan has a new lease of life after getting his mobility scooter done up like a Harley Davidson.
Thomas Kemp, who grew up owning motorcycles ever since he was a teenager, is no longer able to ride around on his beloved possessions.
But now he is able to drive around on a scooter kitted out so he can continue those rides long into his nineties.
Mr Kemp spotted the TGA Supersport while shopping in his hometown of Poole, and said the scooter reminded him of his favourite bikes he rode including the 1000cc Ariel Square Four and the classic Triumph Thunderbird.
A favourite among ex-bikers, the Harley-looking scooter has big wheels, a 30-mile range and rugged black and chrome design.
At 19, Mr Kemp served in the army between 1946 and 1948 after the Second World War. He was responsible for aiding displaced people camps in the Netherlands and Germany.
He still wears his army shorts that survive decades later.
He said: “I’m maybe 93, but my scooter makes me feel 43.
“With lockdown restrictions easing I have been putting on my old army shorts, which still fit amazingly, and drive down to the seafront.
“I’ve been going around the block a few times during the day or going to the shops now and again.
“You’ll never stop me walking, I’m still full of energy however my scooter is such fun and great for longer journeys.
“Now I’ve got my wheels I’m ready to pack up driving.”
Originally from Shoreditch in east London, he worked as a heavy plant engineer repairing farming equipment and cranes around the country and often travelled on his motorbike.
He moved from London to Poole after getting married to a woman at 35, a “beauty queen”, but divorced five years later. He did not marry again.
He has no kids and no surviving relatives.
Mr Kemp added: “I am still pretty fit however my Supersport has given me an extra lease of life.
“My doctor always jokes that he can’t believe there is nothing wrong with me at 93. I don’t need glasses, don’t use a walking stick and have a full head of hair.
“Maybe it’s because I’ve never smoked or drunk alcohol. I only drink fruit juice as well, no tea, no coffee.
“Looking after yourself is really important such as keeping active outdoors.
“With the combination of gardening and driving my scooter by the sea, I remain content and positive.
“Moaning and groaning is a waste of time in my book, my Supersport is fun, ideal for larking about a bit.”
Mr Kemp also said the bike also aids him in his mental health, especially as he lives alone.
He said: “I have no friends, no relatives and no social groups. This suits me fine as I enjoy living on my own.
““I love it down here, ever since my parents took me to Lulworth Cove as a kid, I always vowed to live here.
“My Supersport has just given me the means to enjoy more of the area, even my short drives to the harbour and back are priceless.
“Simply being able to go out is so important – it makes you happy.”