A landlord with more than 60 years' experience in the licensed trade, Douglas Brandwood, has died peacefully aged 85 at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.

After moving to Norwich in 1978, he bought the Plasterers Arms in Cowgate for £60,000 and turned the pub into a mecca for real ale fans.

When he ran a string of pubs in London including the King's Arms in the Old Kent Road, he had another at Hoxton, which was regularly frequented by the infamous Kray twins.

But although he spent his working life selling beer, he told the EDP when he retired in November 1991 that he couldn't stand the taste. 'You will never see me drinking beer. I don't like the taste,' he said.

He and his wife, Phyllis, outlawed intrusive music in the pub but it did have some odd decorations including many potties.

Mr Brandwood, who was always a colourful character, owned a number of fast cars including Aston Martins over the years. And at one stage, he even drove a pink Rolls-Royce, which had been given as a present by his wife.

He maintained an interest in the trade for a number of years and was involved with several pubs in the city. About eight years ago, he acquired the King's Head at Hethersett, where he could often be seen enjoying a glass of Guinness or red wine.

He leaves a widow, Phyllis, and son Keith.

A funeral will be held at City of Norwich Earlham Crematorium on Tuesday, February 26 at 12.45pm.