A statue of Mary Poppins designed by an artist from Calne could soon be displayed in the Australian town where her character was created.

Sean Crampton, who lived in Calne until his death in 1999, designed the statue in 1966 when it was intended for New York’s Central Park.

However, a finished version never made it to the US, and now the town of Bowral in New South Wales has shortlisted Mr Crampton’s work in a list of three to be erected in the town.

Mary Poppins was created 100 years ago this month by actress-novelist Pamela Travers and Bowral is holding a Poppins centenary celebration Paul McShane, vice president and director at Production & Outreach Development Project, is calling onPoppins fans from the town to make their voices heard.

He said: “We are inviting Mary Poppins fans worldwide, but particularly from Calne and the UK, to give an opinion via an online survey on which of the shortlisted designs should be chosen.”

Mr Crampton’s widow Patricia and daughter Harriet, now living in New Zealand, have given the project their blessing.

It is hoped the chosen design will be announced by August 9.

The statue will be a life-size bronze figure and the shortlisted designs can be seen in maquette form at either www.shy ac.org.au or www.mary-poppins-birth place.net