An exclusive bikini contest open only to those aged 55 and above, the 'Grandbikini' event, has been held in China.

More than 400 people showed off their figure at a local water park in Tianjin, including a handful of men eager to pose.

The contest, in its third year running, is organised by a senior citizens' committee to promote health and wellness.

A panel of judges rate participants on criteria including stage presence, smiles and gestures.

The oldest participant was Ma Jing, an 88-year old cancer survivor, who took part in her blue bikini.

"I'm very honoured. If I can take part in a bikini contest at this age, for me it means I'm mentally happy and physically healthy," she said.

By the time the event wound down, the jury handed out more than 100 awards.

But for many, it was more about confidence, encouraging a positive attitude towards growing older, and perhaps trying to prove that age is just a number.