Opponents say the town's distinct flavour is under threat

Last month, North Norfolk District councillors rejected plans for a 1,500 sq m (16,000 sq ft) supermarket on Cromer Road, Sheringham.

Planning officers had recommended approval of the project but councillors voted for rejection by 17 votes to nil.

Tesco appealed against the decision but councillors have agreed to the money being spent to contest an appeal.

Tesco has been pressing for a superstore development on Cromer Road in Sheringham for more than a decade.

Campaigners opposed to the plan say a store would increase traffic and drive out small traders, but Tesco has denied such problems would arise.