by Martin Jefferies

Margate will turn a shade of fluorescent pink when one of the
country's top artists unveils her latest creation.

Tracey Emin, who spent her childhood and teenage years in the
seaside town, makes her long-awaited return tonight to launch
her striking neon artwork.

The colourful sign, which hangs above the entrance to Droit
House, Stone Pier, features the words 'I Never Stopped Loving You'
- a reference to Tracey's adoration for the town.

It was commissioned by the Turner Contemporary - the multi-million pound art gallery which is under construction next door.

Tracey said: "Although I had an extremely unhappy childhood, I
was very lucky to have grown up in Margate. It's such a beautiful
place with the nature, the sea, the horizons and the sunsets.
Margate was a great place to enjoy your youth and I think it shaped
me as a person in a very poetic way."

Tracey's
artwork will be officially unveiled at a special event in Margate
this evening, with hundreds of people expected to turn out to catch
a glimpse of the Turner Prize nominee.

Many local cafés, bars and art galleries are staying open late
and Tracey has even extended her stay until tomorrow in order to
enjoy exhibitions by several Kent artists.

The 46-year-old said: "I can't believe the reception I've
received here; it’s so sweet.

"Walking around Margate, everyone has been shaking my hand,
hugging me and thanking me for what I've done for the town.

"I've actually done very little but what I have tried to do is
to champion the town. Local people seem to appreciate that, which
is brilliant."