CULTURE Secretary Jeremy Hunt has urged the Church Commissioners to ensure the Zurbaran paintings continue to be "enjoyed by the public".

The Government stepped into the controversy for the first time, in reply to a 3,000-signature petition, calling for the £15m pictures to stay in Auckland Castle - their home for 260 years.

The move immediately raised hopes that pressure on the Commissioners to think again - from local people, leading figures from worlds of art and entertainment and, now, ministers - will force a U-turn.

It came as The Northern Echo learnt that a final decision on the fate of the Zurbarans is near and could be announced within weeks.

Mr Hunt said: "The Government hope, however, that a solution can be found that will satisfy the needs of the Church and ensure that the castle and paintings can continue to be enjoyed by the public."

* Read the full story in The Northern Echo today.