A STAR-STRUCK goose has made his acting debut in Steven Spielberg's new film War Horse — but Gideon the Goose is not ready to give up his day job just yet.

Gideon is back in residence at the Two Bridges Hotel which has been his home for eight years after his stint at 'stunt goose' school and hectic filming schedules.

But it is thought to be only a matter of time before fans of the film come flocking to the hotel to catch a glimpse of the avian film star.

Two Bridges sales and marketing manager Jane Askew says Gideon is settling back into civilian life at the hotel with girlfriend Elizabeth, who he met at acting school, but his ego has grown.

Jane said it was owner of the hotel Philip Davies who wa­s responsible for Gideon's success. Mr Davies' grand-daughter Julia wanted to be an extra in the War Horse movie but he was told she was too young so he asked if the geese would be considered instead.

Gideon was then 'talent spotted' by the artistic director, who was also responsible for Avatar, and some of the crew who were staying at the Two Bridges Hotel on Dartmoor at the time.

Jane said Gideon went away for six weeks to animal training  'stunt goose' school in Essex with one of Europe's best bird trainers. He performed well on set along with a few other fellow geese.

'His training involved chase and attack,' said Jane. 'Luckily he soon forgot the attack!

'When Gideon returned we took him down to the River Dart where his friends immediately spotted him and flew towards him. It was quite a special moment as we were all anxious that he would be accepted again.

'Gideon is now a complete "diva" and expects double rations of corn and home-made scones.'

Jane added that Gideon and Elizabeth were happily settled back down and already enjoying the extra attention the movie was bringing them. 

'We welcome people to come and meet him at the Two Bridges,' she said.

Payment for Gideon's acting was by way of £100 for his favourite charity.