A date has been set for the inquiry which is set to decide whether giant retailer Tesco will be allowed to build a store in Ashtead.

The inquiry is due to take place on July 20, in Ashtead, and will have the likes of former Epsom and Ewell MP, Chris Grayling, submitting information to support the resident’s case against Tesco.

Ashtead Residents’ Association and campaigning group Save Ashtead Village Environment (Save) have now launched a joint appeal for others in the area to help with the costs of a planning specialist and a barrister, to represent the “local residents’ interests”.

Paul Le Versha, Chairman of the ARA said: “We are disappointed that Tesco has not revised its proposals to something more appropriate but has decided to appeal clear and sound decisions which have strong community backing.

“We are determined to do the best that we can to fight these proposals. We will work closely with SAVE and other community representatives to fight for a development which would be an asset to the Village. Tesco’s proposals are simply too big.

“We have very little time available to raise a substantial sum. We are confident however that the funds needed will be raised and that the community will pool its resources to fight for a better outcome.”

They need to raise a total of £25,000, of which at least £5,000 have already been committed, according to Save.

Gillian Russell, representing SAVE said: "If 800 people donate £25 we can reach the sum needed.

"We are working hard on obtaining even more evidence to support our case. Over 6,000 people signed both of SAVE's petitions so the level of opposition is overwhelming.

"We are confident that the people of Ashtead will unite to give generously to help save our wonderful village - but we must all act quickly as time is short."

Tesco has submitted two plans for an Ashtead supermarket to Mole Valley. The first was turned down but Tesco lodged an appeal against the decision. The second application was 30 per cent smaller than the previous one but was also turned down.

Both appeals are set to be considered at the public inquiry.

Eoin Dardis, spokesman for Tesco, said: "Our proposals for a new store in Ashtead were developed to strike the right balance in terms of providing the range of goods to prevent people from leaving the village to do their weekly shopping in a store that is the appropriate size for the area.

"There is support among local people, including local businesses, for these proposals and our application was recommended for approval by the Council's officers based on its compliance with local planning policy.

"We will continue to liaise with the Council in advance of the Planning Inquiry this summer."