“This is wonderful news and a great day in the history of Jodrell Bank,” said Professor Theresa Anderson, director of the Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre.

“It honours the pioneering work of Sir Bernard Lovell and the early scientists here, together with the world-leading research that continues to this day.”

The award comes after nine years of campaigning for the inclusion of Jodrell Bank to be recognised by UNESCO, alongside the 31 other UK landmarks that have already received the nod, like Saltaire in Bradford, Durham Cathedral and Kew Gardens. As for the world stage, the Cheshire site now joins the likes of the Taj Mahal and Vatican City. Solid company…

The decision will doubtless add more weight to current campaign ‘Power Up the North’, that’s seen media and politicians come together to demand the Westminster government commits to directing investment and resources into northern regions – and value the potential that’s there.

Anything that shines on the light on the parts of the UK we can be proud of is a winner in our book…

This Cheshire landmark is now a UNESCO World Heritage site