A RECORD number of people took part in Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell’s annual New Year’s Day Walk.

This year 66 people turned out to see in the start of a new decade with some fresh air, compared to the previous record of 51.

The route for his 12th annual walk was a circular tour around the Roman City Walls, almost two miles, starting and finishing at Balkerne Gate.

There were several stops where Sir Bob spoke about the history of Roman Colchester.

Each person taking part was invited to pay £5, and with a couple of donations the £340 raised will be shared by Colchester Toy Library and Stepping Stones Nursery for children with special educational needs.

Sir Bob’s regular monthly tours, raising money for a statue of ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star’ sisters Jane and Ann Taylor, will resume on February 2 at 10am from outside Colchester Arts Centre.