Is it art to package up Margate’s sand and sell it for up to £18?

Anthony Wait thinks so - his latest conceptual work is doing just that.

“My idea is not just about selling off a natural asset for a few quid,” said Anthony, who has a gallery in the old town.

“The point is that I collect the sand, I weigh it, I package it in sequence, log the numbers, and the people who buy it become part of that chain.

“I register where they live as part of the data process.They also take away a part of one of the most glorious stretches of beach in the country.”

But can’t people dig up their own little piece of sandy heaven and take it away?

“This is my concept and it is art,” said Anthony. “I am daring to be different and when I explain the thought process and reasoning that people are part of a chain of events, they get it. I really love sand and I hope people will appreciate it more through my efforts.”

So far he has sold more than 20 pots of Margate’s finest - £7 for 4 oz; £15 for 8 oz; and £18 for a full pound. And he has enough supplies in stock for around 50 more pots.

He has already earned a nickname of The Sandman and says that Tracey Emin has visited his gallery and offered words of encouragement in the past.

He is happy for people to make up their own minds about his concept. And he knows that while some may think his beach sale is all at sea, he also knows that one of the town’s most controversial daughters became a household name through her unmade bed.