Haworth and its surrounding countryside could be in with a chance of being named a World Heritage site and it would be a major coup if it eventually became the second in the district with this exalted status after Saltaire.

Bronte Country, as it is known, already attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and such an accolade could only increase its pulling power – which would obviously benefit both it and the district as a whole.

It must stand a very good chance, too, thanks to its rich social and literary history and the simple fact that, to many, it is the epitome of a West Yorkshire village for all the right reasons.

But on the day it was announced that it may make it onto the shortlist for consideration, an English Heritage report classed the village as at risk.

It said Haworth is marred by too much street clutter, some unsuitable modern shop fronts, the poor state of the setts, which are actually due to be repaired over the next three years, and a lack of overall vision.

English Heritage’s report may have taken some of the shine off the possibility of World Heritage status but it needed to be said.

After all, titles are nice but not as important as ensuring the unique history and charm of this village is preserved and enhanced for generations to come.

This assessment of its current state may have actually helped ensure that happens.