Patron of Shetland Wool Week awarded to the Doull family

The Islesburgh Toorie and the Doulls. Photo: Alexa Fitzgibbon

The Patron of Shetland Wool Week for 2024 has been appointed today (Friday) at a launch event at the Shetland Museum and Archives.

In a break with tradition, this year’s Patron Award has been presented to Addie and Margaret Doull of Islesburgh Farm in Northmavine, and their family, in recognition of their dedication to the Shetland Flock Book and their commitment to preserving and defending the highest quality Shetland wool. .

The highly anticipated hat pattern, which is synonymous with the Patron launch, was also released.

This year’s hat was designed by Addie and Margaret’s daughter, Anne, and is inspired by the family’s Flock Book roots and the location of their farm and is called the ‘Islesburgh Toorie’.

Shetland Wool Week is delighted to shine the spotlight on the Doull family and celebrate Shetland oo, the product on which Shetland Wool Week was built. The Doulls are regularly invited to judge shows across the UK, using their expertise in sheep and wool evaluation.

As keen knitters, Margaret, and more recently Anne, also produce exceptional garments of the highest quality, winning awards both locally and nationally. Margaret in particular is known for her hand-knitted Shetland lace.

Anne said: “It is an honor for the family to be asked to be patrons of this year’s Shetland Wool Week. I am extremely proud that Mum and Dad are being recognized for their work with the Shetland Flock Book, which is committed to preserving and promoting the native breed, and it is something the whole family is committed to.

“We have been farming in Islesburgh, Northmavine since 1970. The whole family and Addie’s brother Kenny are involved in the farm and ranches and all help each other to get the work done.”

Named after the family farm, the Islesburgh toorie features a distinctive Shetland Ram motif, a tribute to the family’s involvement with the Shetland Flock Book.

The addition of the wave lace pattern print pays tribute to Margaret’s expertly knitted lace. The colorways are inspired by the many natural tones of their Shetland flock and the heather-filled hills and sunset views from the farm.

Hazel Sutherland, CEO of Shetland Amenity Trust, which manages the event, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Doulls have agreed to take up the mantle of Wool Week patron. Our outgoing patron, Alison Rendall, has done an excellent job for us and I would like to sincerely thank her for her commitment to this role.

“Her beautiful Buggiflooer hat was a fantastic celebration of Shetland’s natural world, and it inspired many people to try Fair Isle knitting and experimenting with color for the first time. We look forward to sharing more of the Doull family story and wish them all the best for what is sure to be a very busy year.”

The Islesburgh Toorie is available in three different colourways using Shetland yarn from Jamieson’s of Shetland; Jamieson & Smith; and Uradale yarns.

The hat pattern can be downloaded for £1 from the Shetland Wool Week website and is also available in print for £2 from the Shetland Museum and local wool shops.