ONE of the world's top chefs is opening a restaurant in Hampshire.

Winchester has struck a major culinary coup by luring Raymond Blanc to open a venue next year.

Millions of people are currently watching the French-born maestro on the BBC2 programme, The Restaurant where he advises rookie owners on how to make fledgling eateries successful.

Mr Blanc owns the Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons in Oxfordshire and has a small chain called Brasserie Blanc.

The chain has chosen a building in Jewry Street that is nearing the end of a £5.5m overhaul.

Mr Blanc will be a frequent visitor to the restaurant to ensure the highest standards.

Winchester developer Mohamed Bakhaty who has spearheaded the project, said: "I'm very pleased to bring one his restaurants into Winchester, and I'm very pleased to see a good name coming into the city."

The development, a revamp of Victorian shops and a new build stands beside the new Discovery Centre.

It is due to finish in October, by which time the building will have new offices, four apartments and the restaurant.

For the full story see today's Daily Echo