A POPULAR focal point in the centre of Haworth is due to receive some much-needed attention, courtesy of Bradford Council.

Local parish councillors have revealed that a department of the district council has agreed to fund repairs to the steps of Haworth Parish Church, in Main Street.

A spokesman for Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council said Bradford Council's Bereavement Services would be undertaking the work needed to fix unstable steps.

Church spokesman John Huxley said: "We had asked Bradford Council for some help, as we were getting complaints about the state of the steps, some of which are moving and are unstable.

"This is the only part of the property that belongs to Bradford.

"At first it wasn't known which council department this falls under, but now Bereavement Services have said they can help.

"We haven't been told when the work will be done, but this is one of the most heavily visited parts of Haworth and it doubles as a bit of stage during the 1940s Weekend, so we want it to be as safe as it can be."

Priest-in-Charge at Haworth Parish Church, Reverend Peter Mayo-Smith, said: "I'm delighted to hear that this work will be done, it is desperately needed. Some of the steps and one of the kerb stones are loose.

"Everyone, including the Main Street traders, will be pleased to see the steps restored, as they are an important part of village life.

"Lots of people sit on them or eat their fish and chips and drink a pint there. And it's also where newly married couples tend to have their photos taken and have , as it makes for an excellent picture."

A spokesman for Bradford Council confirmed: "We have set aside an estimated £250 for minor pointing repairs to the church steps in Haworth. The work should be carried out in the next few weeks."

Rev Mayo-Smith noted that the historic parish church building itself is still currently undergoing a major restoration programme, explaining that the installation of a new heating system had now begun.

He said the system would be more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, adding that it should be in place by the end of October.