But Nicola Richard, 36, and Susan March, 40, hope their specialist goods and knowledge will help their business survive.

The pair will celebrate ten years of selling spices, honey, nuts, dried fruit and preserves at the Tuesday market on Wood Street car park next month.

They have a loyal following and, along with other traders, are asking customers to sign a petition against the store.

Tesco has submitted a planning application to build the supermarket on the Holywell Business Park and public consultation is underway.

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Miss Richard, of Peppercorn Wholefoods, said: "It's a great concern to the market traders.

"Big supermarkets monopolise trade and small businesses go under. It's wrong because it's taking away the community shopping spirit and one-to-one contact which is what we do.

"We have made a lot of friends, we talk and listen to people - it's great.

"There is a fear that a big supermarket could destroy that. But people love to use Southam market and I'm hoping that will prevail and customers will remain loyal."

The businesswomen are planning to decorate their stall for the March 24 anniversary when customers will receive a treat.

Miss Richard, who worked as a day centre officer for people with learning difficulties before starting the stall, added: "We thought it would be a challenge and good to work for ourselves.

"We are both vegetarian and into alternative foods, but there was nothing like that in Southam.

"Our customers rely on us and we are there come rain or shine."

If built, the supermarket would be half the size of the Emscote Road Tesco in Warwick.

It would not have a pharmacy, postal services or a cafe, but would provide a four-pump petrol station and create around 150 full and part-time jobs.

The company also claims it will be among the most environmentally friendly in the country, using the latest building techniques and materials to reduce its carbon footprint by up to 50 per cent compared to traditional stores.

A Southam Town Council meeting with Tesco took place at the Grange Hall yesterday (February 26).

Letters - page 24