BBC presenter and author Reeta Chakrabarti's visit to Charlotte Brontë's birthplace has been hailed as a “magical evening”.
Guests gathered at the Brontë Birthplace in Thornton on October 17 to hear Ms Chakrabarti discuss her novel, Finding Belle.
Charlotte Brontë influence lives on
The book explores mental illness, relationships, marriage and identity, themes which echo parts of Jane Eyre. Charlotte Brontë wrote the novel nearly 180 years ago.
Reeta Chakrabarti talks through new book (Image: Rosie Preston-Cook)
Ms Chakrabarti answered questions from the audience after her talk and signed copies of her book.
Rosie Preston-Cook, Media and Communications Lead for the Brontë Birthplace, said: "It was an absolutely magical evening. We were so honoured to have someone of Reeta's calibre agree to come to the Birthplace.
"She was so wonderfully charming and down to earth. It really was a fantastic event and everyone really enjoyed it."
Organisers said the visit showed the continuing influence of Charlotte Brontë and her sisters.
Ms Preston-Cook said: "Having someone like Reeta come to the Birthplace really highlights how influential the Brontë sisters remain to be."
Reeta Chakrabarti talks through new book (Image: Rosie Preston-Cook)
Calls for more author events in Thornton
The organisation also received requests for more events featuring authors and speakers.
Ms Preston-Cook said: "We have had some wonderful feedback, particularly from people saying they would like us to do some similar events, so that is definitely something we will look into."
After the appearance, Ms Chakrabarti and six others went to Thornton restaurant New Manzil for dinner.
'I didn't know whether to smile or laugh'
Moklis Ali, manager of the family-run restaurant, said he was surprised when the BBC presenter arrived during one of its busiest evenings.
Mr Ali said: "When Reeta walked in, I didn't know whether to smile or laugh. I was a bit nervous."
Mr Ali said: "It was around 7.45pm, it was a full house and our telephones were going mad with takeaway orders."
No table was immediately available, so Mr Ali asked the group to return later while staff prepared a space. He called them back after about 30 minutes, and they sat down for a meal.
Reeta Chakrabarti at New Manzil (Image: Moklis Ali)
Mr Ali said: "They came back, sat down, enjoyed the curries and they loved it."
Mr Ali said: "Everybody shook our hands before they left."
Supporting the Brontë Birthplace
He has supported the Brontë Birthplace for many years and said the attraction brings visitors from around the world. He believes it deserves greater recognition alongside the Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth.
Mr Ali said: "That's where the magic happened. We need signs or some sort of indication of the Brontë Birthplace. I'm trying to support them in as many ways as possible."
The birthplace described Chakrabarti's appearance as one of the highlights of its programme this year.
Organisers hope the event will bring more visitors through its doors and support future author events.