North-South divide

Originally posted by Jamesd mainland uk is north. we have a south island in the british isles, its called the isle of wight and it probably has the largest gathering of top sailors.

as well as the largest number of people who seem to share similar facial characteristics while having different surnames hmmmm....... perhaps you are confusing with Norfolk?

When I lived down in Cornwall, I got the impression the "Birmingham Navy" was a very specific set: all driving small powerboats or jetskis, towed behind monster 4x4s. No clue as to rules of the road on the water, only using the vessels once (or maybe twice) a year, during half term and/or summer holidays. More prevalent on beaches with camp-sites. Fantastically dangerous to both sailors and swimmers. Identifiable easily by all of the above coupled with loud, strong, West Midlands accents.

The Birmingham Navy used to make it to west Wales as well. Kept the ILB busy, too. Genuinely heard (in Brummie accent) "Look Mom, it's the sea Mom, is it wet, Mom?"

There is of course the very entertaining definition of "South East" as the <a href="http://www.railcard.co.uk/clientfiles/File/map.pdf"> ;rail network defines it</a>

Don't blame the private companies, this was pretty much how British Rail defined it.

Yes, Exeter is apparently in the South East, as is Worcester.

Yes, in the real world, Kings Lynn is further north than Norwich and Peterborough. And Birmingham.