A key part of the Brontes’ family legacy in Haworth remains at risk, according to the group working to try and save it.

The warning comes from John Collinson, of Bronte Spirit, which is raising cash to renovate the Grade II-listed Old School Room in Church Street.

The property was built by Patrick Bronte in 1832 and housed a school where Mr Bronte’s children – Charlotte, Emily, Anne and Branwell – worked as teachers.

Bronte Spirit received £15,000 from English Heritage last year to fund replacement windows. But Mr Collinson said the full restoration project could cost about £500,000.

“The building is seriously at risk because the roof is on its last legs,” he said. “We’re having to chase leaks around. As soon as we deal with one bit of the roof, it starts leaking somewhere else. We’ve had to temporarily close bits of the building for health and safety reasons because of the danger of the roof caving in.”

Bronte Spirit welcome any form of support via the charity’s website at theoldschoolroomhaworth.co.uk.