Funding has been made available to replace Ewell’s famous stepping stones over the River Hogsmill with a footbridge.

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council announced last week it was going ahead with the removal of the stones on safety grounds.

More than 2,500 people have so far signed a petition calling for a reprieve for the stones while an alternative is explored.

The popular crossing has been closed since October after a person reported being injured while using it.