A BRONZE statue of a man picking fruit has been selected as the pick of the crop in Tiptree.

The £25,000 sculpture, by Essex artist Neal French, has been revealed as the chosen design to be placed outside the village’s community centre in Caxton Close.

Parish councillor Maurice Blik, who has been heading up the project, said: “I have had several people come up and say how much they like the idea and the piece, and how much they feel it will add to the perception of Tiptree as a good place to live.”

The council challenged six artists to come up with designs which would highlight the village’s culture and history.

Aposter featuring the designs was put up around the village and residents were asked to give their opinions.

Councillor Blik said: “We had very good designs which were well worked out. The public and the council all felt the same. It would have been my choice as well.

"Fruit growing is a major industry around here.

"It represents reaching for the sky and ambition. I think people appreciate the positive aspect of it.

“Like every piece of art there will be debate about it.”

The final decision on whether the statue is built is now in the hands of Colchester Borough Council, who must give it the green light before work can begin.