A VISION for a statue depicting a pair of prolific poets is edging closer after a generous donation was made towards it.

The statue planned for Colchester High Street will show sisters Jane and Ann Taylor who penned world renowned children’s rhyme Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.

The Taylor family lived in West Stockwell Street in the city’s Dutch Quarter during the siblings’ childhood years.

Colchester Tourist Guides Association has now donated £500 towards the cost of installing the statue diagonally opposite the Town Hall The vision is being championed by Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell, with a target of £80,000.

Gazette: Property - this house in West Stockwell Street was once the home of two famous nursery rhyme writersProperty - this house in West Stockwell Street was once the home of two famous nursery rhyme writers (Image: Google)

So far £60,000 has been raised or pledged.

Sir Bob said: “This is a wonderful donation which recognises the importance of this nursery rhyme as being an important feature in Colchester’s rich history which is more than just about the Romans and our Norman Castle.

“They clearly share my belief that a statue of Jane and Ann Taylor, featuring this internationally known nursery rhyme, can become a major tourist attraction.

“It will be an added attraction for the tourist guides once it is erected.”

If you wish to help the fundraising effort you should contact Sir Bob via sir.bob.russell@hotmail.com.