A CAMPAIGN to install a statue in Colchester High Street has been handed a welcome boost.

Sir Bob Russell is fighting to get the tribute to sisters Jane and Ann Taylor, who penned Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, in place.

The siblings grew up in West Stockwell Street, in Colchester’s Dutch Quarter, and it is said they wrote the renowned nursery rhyme within its four walls.

Sir Bob’s has now raised £61,000 of the £80,000 needed to see the statue installed outside the Tesco Express in the High Street.

It comes after Colchester McDonald’s franchisee Craig Newnes donated £1,000 towards the cast bronze statue.

Sir Bob said: “I am most grateful to Mr Newnes for his donation, which is the third from a business.

“I am hoping that this will encourage other businesses in the central area to also make donations, because it is they who stand to benefit from increased tourism.”