The fund launched last week to fight the appeals by Tesco against the refusals of two applications to build a supermarket in Ashtead has raised more than £10,000.

Last week the Epsom Guardian reported how Ashtead Residents’ Association (ARA) and campaigning group Save Ashtead Village Environment (Save) had launched a joint appeal for help with the costs of a planning specialist and a barrister, to represent “residents’ interests”.

Paul Le Versha, chairman of the ARA said: “We have been very encouraged by the level of support we have received for this initiative. The target is a demanding one and the time available is short but we are determined to give it our best shot, as the outcome of the public inquiry will have a major impact upon the character of our village.

“We will continue to work closely with Save and other community representatives to fight for a development that would be an asset to the village. Tesco’s proposals are simply too big.”

Their goal is to raise £25,000 to employ a planning specialist and a barrister to represent the village’s interests at the public inquiry, which is due to start on July 20.

So far the fund has received more than £10,000 in donations including a cheque of £1,000.

Leaflets giving background to the appeal and providing details of how contributions can be made have been delivered to homes throughout the village.

ARA and Save believe the proposed store is too big for the site and the surrounding infrastructure.

Gillian Russell, representing Save, said: “Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far. More than 6,000 people signed Save’s petitions – if only 800 people donated £25 each we would reach our target, but all donations are very welcome. Save will continue to fight for a smaller store, self contained on the Esso site with only a front entrance to support our local shops, on-site parking and no change to the current car parking arrangements in the village.”

For more details visit ashteadresidents.org.uk and save ashtead.co.uk.