Shaun Brady said he was "unemployable" in the rail industry

Shaun Brady was dismissed last August for "gross misconduct" over an inquiry into the union's finances. He later lost an appeal against the decision.

He has become the landlord of the Castle Inn, Southampton, after being unable to return to his old job as a train driver.

He says his new job helps him feel less bitter about having to leave Aslef.

It's bloody hard work and I'm putting in really long hours - in fact, I could do with a good trade union to represent me Shaun Brady

Mr Brady was alleged to have been involved in a fracas at Aslef's London headquarters on 20 May 2004, blamed on internal disagreements over the running of the union.

This was not, however, the cause of his dismissal.

After being sacked as general secretary, Mr Brady found it impossible to get another job in the rail industry.

"I was unemployable," he said.

"I started to look at other careers and was attracted to the idea of running a pub. It is a great industry and I am enjoying the challenge.

"The regulars have made me and my wife Jane feel very welcome and I am glad to be moving on.

"It's bloody hard work and I'm putting in really long hours - in fact, I could do with a good trade union to represent me."

He said he was preparing to welcome a coach load of former colleagues and train drivers to the pub later this month.