I’m the only medic on the island – but I wish I’d brought some trousers

I’m the sole medical professional here, yet I wish I’d brought along a pair of trousers

Tammy Hine’s relocation to Fair Isle, the UK’s most isolated inhabited island, marked a bold decision that soon revealed its challenges. The 45-year-old nurse, who had left her life in Bedford, initially underestimated the practical demands of her new environment. “I bought a banjo, guitar, bed, sofa, and 150 dresses, which are impractical in such wind,” she remarked, highlighting her wardrobe miscalculation. The island, situated between Shetland and Orkney, required a different approach to living—particularly when it came to clothing.

Her journey began in February, when she set off for Shetland after securing a nursing role. The trip, spanning 760 miles (1,220km), was delayed by relentless weather, which kept her stranded on the mainland for three weeks. “I thought, ‘I’m going to apply’—I never imagined I’d actually get the job,” she shared, revealing her surprise at the opportunity. The role, which became available after the previous nurse departed for NHS Scotland, was the result of a long-held desire to embrace a remote lifestyle.

Tammy’s dream of living in a distant place had roots in her youth. “My goal was always to move to Alaska,” she said, but the chance to live on Fair Isle, a place famed for its knitwear, wildlife, and bird observatory, seemed like the next best thing. With a career spanning 23 years, including 13 as a palliative care specialist, she approached the position with enthusiasm. “I’m really sociable, but I’m also quite independent,” she noted, explaining her suitability for the role. The island’s tranquility and tight-knit community offered the perfect setting for her to slow down and connect with people in a more traditional way.

Despite the initial hurdles, Tammy has found a sense of belonging. “I feel so much more peaceful,” she said, even as she continues to enjoy the lively interactions with islanders. Her evenings are filled with music, as she jams with locals and writes songs inspired by the natural beauty surrounding her. “I’ve written about the moon, Northern Lights, and the sea now,” she added, reflecting on her new creative direction. A recent encounter with orcas on her second day on the island underscored the unique experiences awaiting her.

The role demands she care for all ages, from children to adults, and handle whatever emergencies arise. While she is the only medic on Fair Isle, she has access to support via the Shetland GP practice, an air ambulance, and coastguard helicopter. “The stars have aligned,” she mused, expressing gratitude for the chance to live this adventure. As the puffins are expected to return soon, she eagerly anticipates the seasonal highlights of her new home. Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X.

“I actually just bought my banjo, my guitar, my bed and my sofa and about 150 dresses, which you can’t wear here because it’s so windy – so I’ve got to buy new trousers,” she said.

“I thought, ‘I’m going to apply’ – I never thought for a minute I’d hear anything back,” said Tammy.

“I have always wanted to live somewhere remote: my dream was to go to Alaska.”

“I’m really very sociable, but I’m also really good on my own: very independent, probably to a fault.”

“Sometimes after all the fun and all that chaos, you just need to slow down a bit.”

“I absolutely love Bedford; the music and the community,” she said.

“But here you kind of forget there’s another world outside.”

“Everyone’s so welcoming, coming round, and I’m having cups of tea with everyone.”

“I’ve been to a party, had a disco and even jammed with one man.”

“The bird watching is just phenomenal,” she said.

“I’m just really lucky. The stars have aligned.”