BUTE has welcomed a new farming family, with the re-letting of Plan Farm on a long term tenancy from the Mount Stuart Trust.

Archie and Cathinka Paterson were successful in what the trust described as the 'very competitive' tender for the tenancy, and will now take charge of a farm which extends across 1400 hectares of the southern peninsula of the island, including the remains of St. Blane’s Monastery.

Crucially, the tenancy is for 20 years, giving this young family a real opportunity to build themselves a successful farming career on Bute.

The Patersons are relocating from their previous tenancy in Kilmacolm, Ayrshire. Archie is a self-made shepherd and Cathinka is a certified sheepdog instructor. Originally from Norway, she joins a community of shepherdesses on the island who all train working Collie dogs. Having previously farmed on seasonal grazings, the Patersons are looking forward to farming just one farm straight out of their back door.

Mount Stuart Trust said that the Patersons' experience, enthusiasm, and innovative approach to land management impressed at the application stage: "They have a sound business model, demonstrated a clear consideration for this land, and an overall progressive approach with a clear vision for the future. They will have the opportunity to diversify away from the traditional farming with their sheepdogs and the opportunity to offer holiday lets out of 'The Shepherds Cottage' which is included in the tenancy.

"This is an exciting time for this new farming couple, Mount Stuart Trust and the rural community on the Isle of Bute," said a spokesman.

Scottish Tenant Farmers Association chairman Christopher Nicholson, commented: "We welcome the news that the Plan Farm on Bute has been re-let on a long term tenancy to a new farming family.

"It is reassuring to see Mount Stuart Trust making use of long term tenancies which will be vital for the future health of agriculture on the island, with an understanding that farm tenants should be allowed to diversify without any obstructions. Long term tenancies with fair conditions will attract tenants and their families who wish to make the island their home, which has far reaching benefits for island situations.

"We understand there are further farms on Bute currently on short term lets, and we would encourage Mount Stuart Trust to re-let these farms on long term tenancies sooner rather than later," added Mr Nicholson. "These are opportunities not just for new blood coming to the island, but also for existing family farms to expand."