Graffiti on a Triennial artwork commenting on homelessness has prompted a debate among residents.

The artwork, one of the Holiday Homes installations by Richard Woods, on Grace Hill was daubed with the words 'How's the homeless'.

It has led to a discussion about the intention behind the words with some pointing out the double meaning of "how's" sounding like the word house.

The words have since been painted over to restore the piece to its original state.

The statement "house the homeless" has caused some to suggest money would be better spent on tackling homelessness than commissioning artwork for the Folkestone Triennial.

The arts festival, which takes place in Folkestone every three years, is run by the town's Creative Foundation.

The charity is looking to use the arts as a means of regenerating Folkestone by attracting visitors and artists to come down to live and work in the town.

Some people have questioned the legitimacy of the comment because of what they believe is dubious spelling.

The picture was shared in the We Love Folkestone Facebook group.

Justin Wilkinson said: "I assumed it was a play on words asking both a question as well as making a statement. Well in keeping with the pretentiousness of all the other art."

Steve Cook wrote: "Maybe was meant to say house the homeless ... does not emphasise its meaning if not even spelled correctly. Don’t think it was that clever... would be nice to think it was though."

Andrew Bragg added: "A Social comment in a public space."

A spokesman for the Creative Foundation said they had no comment.