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

Tammy Hine’s Remote Life on Fair Isle

Tammy Hine’s decision to trade her life in Bedford for the UK’s most isolated inhabited island has been both adventurous and practical. The 45 residents of Fair Isle, a Shetland Island stretching three miles long and one and a half miles wide, now rely on her as their sole healthcare provider. She arrived in Shetland on February 9 but only reached the island three weeks later due to relentless storms. Despite the delay, she has quickly adapted to her new environment.

A Fashion Misstep in the Windy Isles

Her wardrobe, however, proved less adaptable. Tammy, who recently turned 50, admitted she “misjudged” her clothing choices. “I bought a banjo, guitar, bed, sofa—and 150 dresses,” she explained. “But here, the wind is so strong, you can’t wear them. So I’ve got to buy trousers.” The island’s reputation for fierce weather and its status as the southernmost Shetland Island likely contributed to her wardrobe rethink.

From Bedford to Fair Isle: A New Chapter

Tammy’s career in nursing, spanning 23 years, has included roles as a district nurse and a specialist in palliative care. She applied for a nurse position on Fair Isle after learning of a vacancy, aiming to “slow down” and embrace a more tranquil pace. “My dream was to live somewhere remote,” she said, referencing Alaska as her initial inspiration. Now, she finds herself immersed in the island’s serene, old-fashioned community.

Community and Connection

While her job demands she care for all ages, from children to adults, Tammy thrives in the close-knit environment. She often calls on a Shetland GP for emergencies and can access an air ambulance or coastguard helicopter if needed. Her sociable nature has been well-received, with locals welcoming her into their circle. “Everyone’s so friendly,” she shared, describing tea sessions and even a disco event. She’s also jamming with islanders in her free time.

Music and Nature: A Perfect Blend

Tammy’s passion for music, rooted in her Bedford band Duzzy Avocado, continues to flourish. She writes songs with her friend Johnny, now inspired by the island’s natural beauty. “They’re about the moon, Northern Lights, and the sea,” she noted, contrasting her past focus on urban life. On her second day, she spotted orcas—a rare experience compared to her Bedford lunch breaks. She eagerly awaits the return of puffins later this month, calling the birdwatching “phenomenal.”

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

Legacy and Luck

Tammy, named after country music legend Tammy Wynette, feels her move was “lucky.” “The stars have aligned,” she said, reflecting on her new life. Though she misses Bedford’s music scene, she finds fulfillment in Fair Isle’s unique blend of solitude and community. Her journey, though weathered, has brought her closer to her dream of a remote, meaningful existence.