A HOUSE which helped shape the destiny of one of Britain's most famous literary sisters is for sale.

It was in the garden of Brookroyd House at Birstall that Charlotte Bronte corrected the proofs of Jane Eyre, the novel that would make her famous.

The writer, who struggled with a turbulent and often desolate life, saw the house as a retreat.

It was the home of her life-long and closest friend, Ellen Nussey, who Charlotte met in 1831 while attending Roe Head School in Mirfield.

Many of Charlotte's personal letters were written from Brookroyd House and often replied to at that address.

Her correspondence with Ellen forms the best documentation of the Bronte sister's short life.

Now, the house has been put on the market by the owner, actor Tony Bennett-Pitts, who played Archie Brook in Emmerdale for 11 years.

He and his wife, Amanda, plan to move to France.

Ann Dinsdale, librarian at the Bronte Parsonage Museum in Haworth, said: "Brookroyd House played an important role in Charlotte's history. She used to stay there frequently with Ellen and they remained very close until Charlotte died in 1855.

"Now that it's for sale, we very much hope it will be bought by someone who appreciates its strong literary connections."

Brookroyd House, with its stone double front and neat, formal gardens, was built in 1780. It retains many of the features Charlotte would have been familiar with, such as a typical sweeping staircase, elaborate coving and its original Georgian floors.

The garden is where Ellen's brother, the Rev Henry Nussey, vicar of the church which still stands nearby, proposed to Charlotte - an offer she rejected. Other members of the Bronte family, including Emily and Anne, were also visitors.

The four-bedroomed house is being marketed by the Huddersfield office of national property consultants Carter Jonas, with a guide price of £365,000.

Tony Bennett-Pitts said: "Because so much of the house is in its original state you don't need much imagination to feel what it was like when Charlotte Bronte was here.

"As a writer, that can sometimes be inspiring - and sometimes very intimidating. You're in awe."

Jane Stocks, of Carter Jonas's Huddersfield office, said: "This year marks the 150th anniversary of Charlotte Bronte's death. Coincidentally, it is also the 150th anniversary of Carter Jonas.

"Brookroyd House plays a significant part in the history of Britain's most famous literary family.

"We look forward to meeting potential buyers with interest."