The tiny Scottish isle of Eigg – the centre of a famous buyout by islanders 20 years ago – is celebrating cracking a population milestone after passing 100 residents.
In fact the trust that runs the Hebridean isle now reckons there are 105 islanders – but has only just realised it after doing a mental head count!.
When Eigg was bought out in 1997 it had just 64 people.
However the century milestone almost went unnoticed until some islanders started to do the maths.
It is believed the 100th resident was a baby boy born in January, but there have also been new residents moving to Eigg – including the new owner of a stunning home said to have inspired parts of JRR Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, which was put up for sale for £230,000.
In the 20 years of community ownership, the population of Eigg has increased more than 60 percent. Five children now attend the primary school and are among the 19 children on the island – older youngsters attend Mallaig High School, 18 miles away on the mainland.
The Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust, which owns the island, has over the years built a tea shop and set-up forestry projects and created much other employment.
Maggie Fyffe, secretary of the trust, said:”I think what we have achieved is fantastic. Eigg is very much a different place now.
“We only recently realised we have passed 100 residents. We never really set targets – slow and sustainable growth is what is important.
“It is also pleasing to see such a diverse population with a healthy demographic. To have 19 children here is wonderful and the oldest resident is in her 80s. It is a good and varied mix. We have achieved a lot and we hope to achieve even more in the years to come.
“There is no question it has been worth it. The employment opportunities have increased considerably and we have renovated a lot of houses and improved the environment. We have a lot to be proud of.”
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