The village pub feel of The Castle in Isleworth is just what owner and former film veteran Reg Metcalf wants.

The 51-year-old, of Boston Manor Road, Hanwell, said residents participating in weekly, non-competitive poker nights gives the place a more intimate feel.

After 30 years of working as a specialist in aerial cinematography for movies, as well as working as a helicopter test pilot, Mr Metcalf said he took over the pub in January to have a life after film and aviation.

"It was time to retire," he added.

He said after working on projects from the Lord of the Rings to broadcasts of the Olympics for the past three decades, he is content to never to return to the film or broadcasting industry.

"I'm on my fourth passport and there are only six countries in the world I haven't been to," said Mr Metcalf.

As a part of his retirement plan, he bought the village pub on Upper Square with partner Julie Zielanska and now heads a staff of six.

He said he eventually wants to own five pubs like The Castle since the comraderie between patrons and employees makes for a good time.

"It has a lot of personalities in it," he said. "Between the staff and the locals, you never stop laughing."