Eighties icon Rick Astley is loving his second chance at stardom.

The Never Gonna Give You Up singer has been surprised at the success of his latest album 50, recorded to celebrate his big birthday.

"I haven't made any new material in donkeys years and I thought I would before I get old and grey.

"Some people buy a Harley and drive across America, get a second wife or learn to surf but I thought I'd do this and do something for me."

The chart-topping album was recorded in a 'man cave' in his back garden and Rick played two tracks from it at Let's Rock Southampton on the Common last night.

His old and new material went down a storm but he told the Daily Echo he doesn't expect to be topping the singles chart any time soon.

"We've had two songs hammered on the radio, but I'm never going to have a top single because I'm too old.

"If you look at the top 30, there's not a single song by someone my age."

He's enjoyed his second shot at superstardom though.

"I'm very busy, but having said that nothing's really changed.

"If I put petrol in the car on the way home, I won't be recognised and that's perfect. I don't stop traffic and I'm glad."

Rick's new tour comes to Bournemouth and Portsmouth in April.