I’m the only medic on the island – but I wish I’d brought some trousers
I’m the only medic on the island – but I wish I’d brought some trousers
Tammy Hine moved to the UK’s most isolated inhabited island, Fair Isle, after uprooting her life in Bedford. Her wardrobe decision might have been a miscalculation, as the island’s unpredictable weather has made her 150 dresses impractical. “I actually bought my banjo, guitar, bed, and sofa along with those dresses, which aren’t useful here because of the wind,” she explained. “Now I need to buy trousers instead.”
A New Life on Fair Isle
Located 760 miles from Bedford—roughly midway between Shetland and Orkney—Fair Isle is a small island measuring three miles by one and a half miles. It is the southernmost of the Shetland Islands, known for its knitwear, wildlife, and bird observatory. Tammy, who is about to turn 50, saw this as “one more adventure” to pursue. After learning of a nursing vacancy, she applied, secured the role, and now cares for the island’s 45 residents and visitors.
The Art of Nursing
With 23 years of experience, Tammy has worked as a palliative care specialist nurse for 13 years and previously as a district nurse. During her interview, she shared her passion for music, her love of Dolly Parton, and her desire to connect with nature. “I wanted to slow down, find peace, and meet a new community,” she said. “Sometimes after all the chaos, you need to just take a step back.”
Her relocation faced delays due to severe weather. Arriving in Shetland on 9 February, she only reached Fair Isle three weeks later. Despite the challenge, she has embraced her new environment, calling it “like I’ve always been here.” “I feel so much more peaceful,” she said, “even though I’m sociable by nature. It’s a great place to be.”
Music and Memories
Tammy’s musical background is deeply rooted. In Bedford, she was part of the band Duzzy Avocado. “I absolutely love Bedford and the community there,” she remarked. “But here, you kind of forget there’s another world outside.” She now jams with locals, attends parties, and even hosts a disco. “Everyone’s so welcoming, coming round with cups of tea and stories,” she said.
In her free time, Tammy continues creating music, collaborating with her friend Johnny in Bedford. Her recent songs focus on natural wonders like the moon, Northern Lights, and the sea. She spotted orcas on her second day on the island—a rare sight compared to her Bedford routine. “You don’t often get that on your lunch break there!” she laughed.
Looking ahead, Tammy is eager to witness the return of puffins to Fair Isle by month’s end. “The bird watching is just phenomenal,” she said. “I’m really lucky. The stars have aligned.” Her role as the island’s sole medic means she must handle everything from children to adults, relying on a Shetland GP practice and air ambulance for emergencies.
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