The proprietor of a much-loved Farnham newsagent has admitted he and his wife are on “borrowed time” with plans being submitted to convert his shop into housing.

It’s fair to say Anand Patel and his wife have become part of the fabric of West Street life.

The pair have been ever-present behind the counter of Captain Yorke since 1995, often working more than 100 hours of week to serve their community.

But like the Bishop’s Table and Jolly Sailor, their much-loved newsagent could soon disappear from the landscape as the owner of the property is keen to convert the unit into a three-bedroom home.

The application has led to a wave of support from shocked and concerned locals and residents, with around 100 objections being made to Waverley Borough Council.

But while Mr Patel and his wife admitted they were “upset” upon hearing the news, they’re not being booted out with zero notice and accept it’s been coming.

He said: “It’s true that we have been served a notice and have to leave the property, but I have to say our landlord has been very understanding and helpful.

“We’ve been given an extension and we’ve still got plenty of time here.

“Yes, we are on borrowed time, but now the application is done and people have found out and a lot are upset.

“The community is our heart and we’ve been running this shop for 29 years but we are tenants and the landlord has been very understanding with us.”

Many of the objections concern the potential loss of the shop on elderly residents with some calling the newsagent a “lifeline” and “integral part” of the community.

One Hazell Road resident even told the Herald they would be happy to protest outside the shop, adding: “I would just hate to see it go.”