ART lovers are launching a bid to keep a treasured collection of paintings in the North-East.

Thirteen full-length portraits of Jacob and his Twelve Sons by 17th century Spanish artist Francisco de Zurbaran have hung in the Bishop of Durham's home, Auckland Castle, for more than 250 years. But they could be lost to the region for good if the Church Commissioners decide later this month to sell them off to the highest bidder.

The chairman of Bishop Auck-land Civic Society, Dr Bob Mc-Manners, insists the collection should stay in the castle and has sent a personal plea to senior commissioner Lady Gill Brentford.

He is also canvassing fellow castle trustees who will discuss the proposed sale for the first time on Friday.

Dr McManners said: "It would be an act of artistic vandalism if these treasures were lost. They are works of international importance and should stay where they belong."

The paintings were brought to England in 1726 and 30 years later Bishop Richard Trevor brought them to Auckland Castle. Today they are worth millions.

Bowes Museum director Adrian Jenkins has also written to the Church Commissioners.

He said: "I feel strongly that the paintings should remain in the North-East if at all possible."