Island ‘swamped’ with applications for summer caretaker job
A 400-acre uninhabited Scottish island has been forced to close applications for a summer caretaker job after it was swamped with applications.
The Isle Martin Trust announced it would not be accepting any more applications three days earlier than planned on Saturday.
It had invited single people and couples to register their interest in the job which would involve maintaining the island, off the west coast of Scotland, from June to the end of September.
No one lives there permanently, so it could get lonely if you’re by yourself, but that did not deter people from applying in large numbers.
The Isle Martin Trust charity wrote on Facebook: “The post for caretaker is now closed for applications
“We're sorry but due to the publicity we have been swamped with applications and messages.
“Thank you all so much for your interest but we are unable to respond to any more communications for the foreseeable future.
“If you have emailed with an application up to 10.30am Saturday 29th May your application will be considered but if you don't hear from us by June 10th it is not being taken further. Please don't email any related addresses you may find.”
Isle Martin has two beaches, a small museum and offers excellent views from a hill for birdwatching but there's no running hot water
The winning applicant will be the first full-time resident on the island for 30 years.
The Isle Martin Trust hopes to generate new interest in the location and implement a plastic-free and sustainable future.
Trust director Becky Thomson told the BBC what the caretaker position involves, saying: "It is a bit of housekeeping.
“They need to keep the three houses on the island prepared for guests, clean the public toilets, welcome the visitors and make sure they are sticking to Covid safety measures."
The caretaker will work three hours a day and be compensated by living in accommodation on the island and getting £150 expenses per week.
The only requirement was that at least one of the applicants “must have powerboat driving competency”, as the closest mainland is almost a mile away.
