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A REMOTE island in the Outer Hebrides made famous by the BBC`s Castaway programme has been sold.

Taransay, on the market for two weeks, was bought for an undisclosed sum by an anonymous buyer.

The island, which was used for the hit TV series, had a price tag of at least £2 million.

TV presenter Ben Fogle was among those who expressed an interest in buying the island. He became a household name when he roamed the rugged island with his dog on the BBC show 11 years ago.

A spokesman for estate agents CKD Galbraith said the new owner does not plan to change the way the island is used and managed.

John Bound said: "Given its exceptional beauty and outstanding setting, it was no surprise that Taransay attracted so much interest and that it has been sold in less than two weeks. The existing owners know the purchaser and all involved are delighted with the outcome, and the island passes into safe hands.

"There will no doubt be a number of disappointed parties who would have liked to bid but it is fitting that Taransay is now in the new ownership of somebody closely acquainted to the area who will preserve the current management of the island."

Taransay covers 3,445 acres and is wholly owned. It has a recently refurbished traditional farmhouse and old school chalet, as well as a bothy which provides holiday accommodation.

The island also has trout and sea fishing, as well as sustainable deer stalking.

Inhabited until 1974 when the last family left, Taransay is now used to graze sheep. The island has had a colourful history. Being the home of Celtic pagans in 300AD, it was the site of several fierce battles and invasions, such as the Massacre of Taransay in 1544 when the Morrisons of Lewis invaded.