The future of Surbiton Farmers’ Market has been secured, after a council compromise and support from the community.

Council officers said that in order for the Maple Road market to operate legally, the area needed to be designated as a trading zone, at an additional cost of £575 per market.

But Facebook campaigners argued the increased cost would destroy the feel and purpose of the market, which passes all surplus on to charity.

More than 350 people emailed the council opposing the original recommendations. Officers went on to reduce the additional fee to £150 per market, which Geoffrey Doyle, co-chairman of Surbiton Farm and Produce Community Interest Company, described as a good result.

The trading zone will only apply to the market and no other trading will be permitted, which was a concern to residents.

Councillor Barry O’Mahony said it was quite reasonable.

A spokesman for the company, said: “We are pleased that the Surbiton neighbourhood committee’s decision allows the farmers' market to continue.

“However, we will to continue to campaign to further reduce our costs in order to maximise our surplus to distribute to local good causes and charities, which is our primary aim.”

The next market is on Saturday, September 18.