Though its time gracing Southampton's Westquay Retail Park was fleeting, Radio Café carved out a memorable niche, pulsing with an infectious energy that drew in celebrities, hosted a whirlwind of lively events, and echoed with countless laughs.

One particularly unforgettable evening, on November 25, 1999, the dreary late autumn day was gloriously gatecrashed by an explosion of tropical warmth. 

It was as if the very essence of the Caribbean had been bottled and uncorked within the café's walls, bringing with it not just the metaphorical rays of island sunshine, but also the very literal, smooth embrace of Caribbean rum.

It was a taste of paradise designed to entice and inform. 

Among the specially invited guests were the city's own travel agents, eager to immerse themselves in the allure of the West Indian islands and discover the myriad of experiences awaiting potential tourists. 

The air, already thick with anticipation, soon thrummed to the irresistible rhythms of a live steel band. Their melodies, bright and joyful, painted pictures of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

As the captivating music played, visitors were treated to a true feast for the senses. 

Icy glasses of rum punch, that quintessential Caribbean cocktail, flowed freely, each sip a sweet and potent reminder of sun-drenched shores. 

The aroma of delicious, authentic Caribbean food wafted through the venue, a tantalising invitation to sample exotic spices and flavours. Adding to the spectacle, graceful limbo dancers defied gravity, their mesmerising performance captivating the assembled crowd and drawing gasps of admiration.

The spirit of fun was infectious. Guests enthusiastically participated in lively games, their laughter mingling with the music and chatter. 

A spirited quiz tested their newfound knowledge and perhaps their luck, with the ultimate prize being a dream come true: the lucky winner bagged themselves an incredible trip to the sun-kissed island of Barbados, a perfect culmination to an evening that had already transported them, at least in spirit, to a world of warmth and vibrant celebration. 

For that night, Radio Café wasn't just a venue in a retail park; it was a portal to paradise.