Restaurants and smaller shops are often converted into family homes offering plenty of character, style and space.

But few are more impressive than a takeaway conversion in Botley Road, Oxford, which is attracting interest from buyers and passers by.

Headington-based builder Tony Woods has converted, restored and improved the former Pearl River Takeaway on the corner of Botley Road and Henry Road.

Mr Woods, pictured above right, who specialises in renovatiing older properties, has spent about five months on the conversion which has transformed the building into a five-bedroomed property.

He has been assisted by his son. Matthew and colleague Steve Jordan.

Mr Woods said: “The take away area is now an 18ft long sitting room where we uncovered the oringinal Victorian open-brick fireplace “The most difficult job was replacing the bay which required precise alignment to return the facade to its former glory.”

He added: “We have also completely renovated the property which involved replacing the wiring, plumbing, roofing and heating and fitting double-glazed sash windows.

Ian Brown of local selling agents Pearce Alder & Co, said: “The property has been professionally updated and offers flexible accommodation arranged over three floors.

“It has the benefit of a two-storey detached coachouse which would be ideal as a home office, along with a walled garden and two parking spaces - a rare facicilty in this part of Botley Road.”

The house has a contemporary kitchen/breakfast room with an island unit and a range of fitted appliances, The first floor has a master bedroom with en-suite, two further double bedrooms and a bathroom. There a two good-sized bedrooms on the top floor.

Number 66 Botley Road, has a guide price of £650,000. For more details, call Pearce Alder & Co on 01865 246502.