Eigg

Island of the Inner Hebrides, in Highland unitary authority, Scotland; 20 km/12 mi southwest of Mallaig on the mainland; population (2001) 130. Extending over an area of 40 sq km/15 sq mi, it is one of a group collectively known as the Small Isles. Crofting (a form of subsistence farming) is the main occupation. The residents of Eigg bought their island in April 1997 after an eight-month ownership battle.

The islanders' victory marked the end of private ownership which had dominated the island since 1308. In December 1996, an initial bid by the islanders of £1.2 million had been rejected by the then owner, a German artist, and a month later the trustees of the Heritage Lottery Fund turned down their appeal for financial help. Finally, an English millionairess, who has remained anonymous, was believed to have given them around £900,000 – the bulk of the £1.5 million purchase price.