THE philanthropist and wealthy investment manager who saved the Zurbaran paintings for the North-East will be honoured by the Prince of Wales today.

Jonathan Ruffer will receive one of only five 2011 Medals for Arts Philanthropy, which celebrate outstanding individuals who support the arts in the UK, at a ceremony at Clarence House.

He bought the £15m paintings in May following a campaign to prevent the Church Commissioners auctioning them off.

Mr Ruffer, originally from Stokesley, North Yorkshire, is also the chairman of a project to restore Auckland Castle, in Bishop Auckland, the historic seat of the Bishops of Durham and home to the Zurbaran paintings.

One of the campaign leaders, Dr Bob McManners, who is chairman of Bishop Auckland Civic Society, said he was delighted to hear Mr Ruffer had been honoured.

“I think this (saving the Zurbaran paintings) is one of the best things to have been done in the art world,” he said.

“It was an amazing piece of artistic vision to do what he did. It is outstanding, almost unprecedented.”

Colin Tweedy, chief executive of Arts and Business, said: “It is always vital to honour the remarkable commitment of individuals who have the love and compassion to allow the arts to flourish for future generations.

“Throughout history, these individuals have prevented a dark shadow falling over our cultural world and these philanthropists are the cornerstones for growth of our cultural community.

“These honourees tell very different stories. They come from different worlds and have given and supported the arts in many different ways.

“What unites them is an unfailing belief in the importance of the arts and the desire and commitment to see the arts flourish.”

Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt added: “This year’s recipients of the Prince of Wales Medal are role models for us all. This is fitting recognition for their profound generosity over many years and across the entire nation.

“When I see how artists, audiences and our cultural heritage benefit from their support, I am optimistic for the future of philanthropy in this country.”