Townsfolk at Sheringham have two chances to quiz local councillors about a land swap deal that would pave the way for new allotments and a possible 'green' supermarket.

Townsfolk at Sheringham have two chances to quiz local councillors about a land swap deal that would pave the way for new allotments and a possible 'green' supermarket.

A public meeting has been arranged to discuss the issue, which is also likely to be raised during question time at the annual town meeting three days earlier.

And councillors got a taste of some of the flak they may face this week when local resident Sharon Bowen, a supporter of Tesco's rival plan, gave them a taste of the rumours running around town.

Allotment holders had concerns about the land switch, she told Tuesday's town council meeting. People also wanted clarification and were talking of 'backhanders', plans for affordable housing, and felt the surprise announcement of the new store plan as Tesco revealed their revised plans was 'sneaky'.

Mrs Bowen called on councillors to resign, adding 'we know there has been a mafia in Sheringham for ever and a day, with people who like to have their say and blow everybody else.'

Mayor Noel Gant said she was labouring under rumours, and stressed: 'I have faith in the council which goes about its duties in complete transparency.'

Businessman Clive Hay-Smith is behind the land swap move, which would double the number of allotments, and see the current plots used as a site for a planned eco-friendly supermarket, ploughing a share of profits back into a community charity and delivering goods in electric vehicles.

It faces a battle to get planning permission which would be against current policies. But Mr Hay-Smith said he was encouraged to apply for permission following positive feedback from an exhibition of his plans in town this week.

A public meeting to discuss the land swap project is being held at St Andrew's Methodist Church on Friday, April 17 at 7.30pm.

Doug Smith told fellow councillors he had hoped such a meeting would head off 'the kind of comments we received tonight.'

The annual town meeting at the community centre on Tuesday, April 14 at 7.30 includes a chance to question councillors, as well as hear reports about the council's business, and presentations from the Little Theatre, Upcher Partnership and Sheringham Museum.