Over 600 applicants for Inchcolm Island manager job

By RORY REYNOLDS
Published on 19/02/2013 12:07

HUNDREDS of applications have been received for a single post as manager of an uninhabited island in the middle of the Forth of Forth.

• Applicants from as far as South Africa and America have applied for the post

• The eight month role carries a salary of £20,370

• Occupants pay no rent because of “limited services” on the island

A total of 623 people have applied to Historic Scotland for the role on Inchcolm Island off the coast of South Queensferry.

Despite limited internet connection and the need to bring all supplies over by boat - including drinking water - applicants from as far as South Africa and America have entered their CVs for the post.

Many applicants are likely to have been attracted by the pace of life on the island, which has no shops apart from an Historic Scotland gift store.

The eight month role also carries a salary of £20,370 and includes a two-bedroom cottage. Occupants also pay no rent because of “limited services” on the island.

“Applications have been flooding in” a spokeswoman for Historic Scotland said.

“There has been a remarkable response. Perhaps it’s something to do with the current economic climate - people wanting to escape the rat race.”

The island is closed from October to March although previous managers have returned for a second season.

Historic Scotland said a background in tourism or nature would be beneficial. The successful candidate has two days per week off, usually Monday and Tuesday, and has the option to return to Edinburgh.

The spokeswoman added: “The manager also needs to bring food across and plan meals. There is also limited internet connection. A TV is provided although the passing boats can occasionally affect reception.

“The main thing about living on the island is that it offers an adventure and the chance to experience new things. You have the whole island to yourself in the evenings, enjoy beautiful views and the stunning wildlife.”

Inchcolm sits in the shadow of the Forth Rail Bridge and is reached by boat from South Queensferry. Apart from the house, the only building is Inchcolm Abbey which dates back to the 12th century.

Around 20,000 people visit the island every year and weddings are held in the ruins of the abbey. English raiders repeatedly attacked the island during the Wars of Scottish Independence.