THE Bronte Society has announced that Dame Judi Dench will be given the role of honorary president of the organisation.
The announcement was made today, a few days before the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charlotte Bronte.
The Oscar-winning actress and author, who played Rochester’s housekeeper Mrs Fairfax in the 2011 film adaptation of Jane Eyre, has long been a fan of the Brontes and their writing.
Yorkshire-born Ms Dench said: “I am delighted to have been offered the role of Brontë Society President and look forward to helping the organisation celebrate this significant and iconic literary family.
"The Brontes are respected and adored the world over and it will be an honour to work with the society to promote their legacy during this important bicentenary period.”
The announcement comes in the midst of the celebrations surrounding the 200th anniversary which takes place on Thursday, April 21.
John Thirlwell, chairman of the Bronte Society, said: "We are thrilled that Dame Judi has accepted our invitation to be our President. The Bronte Society is embarking on an exciting new chapter in its history and I can think of no better person to accompany us on that journey."
Ms Dench will be officially voted in as president at the society’s annual meeting in June.
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