SOUTHAMPTON'S extraordinary restaurant renaissance continues.

The latest one to throw open its doors is Radley's, based in a former office at the Royal Mail House, a grade II-listed building in upmarket Oxford Street.

Joint directors Rachel Wyatt, 32, and Maple Hurlock, 35, are the driving force behind the £400,000 venture.

The idea for a restaurant and bar, which opened up to the public today, was conceived just five months ago. Now the business partners, who employ up to 30 staff, are looking forward to a successful future. Rachel, from Fareham, said: "There's going to be great food and excellent service in a relaxed atmosphere."

There was a champagne VIP night on Saturday for more than 150 people. Radley's is named after George Radley, who built Radley's Hotel in the 1840s.

That closed in 1907 and was taken over by the Royal Mail Shipping Company.

A number of run-down historic buildings have been transformed this summer, including Dockgate 4 and Joe Dafloe's.