Hirst work bought for under £500

Sales of Hirst's works have been known to surpass the 1m mark, but Mike Hall, from Gloucestershire, was able to purchase the rare collection for just 460.

The book, published in 1997 and entitled I Want To Spend The Rest Of My Life Everywhere With Everyone, One To One, Always, Forever, Now, features numerous colour illustrations, including pop-ups, by the renowned Leeds College of Art graduate.

Among his highest-selling works are a diamond-encrusted human skull – entitled For The Love Of God – which went to an investment group for 50m.

But his book sold for just 460, plus 17.5 per cent buyer's premium, when it went under the hammer in Cirencester, Gloucestershire.

Asked if he thought the purchase was a bargain, Mr Hall said: "I hope so, that'd be something wouldn't it?"