As an exile from the South, I've always noticed it standing out as really odd that Sheffield natives pronounce the name of the London express as "Maa-ster" with the long A. This is how I would say it, but I would have thought Sheffielders would say "Mass-ter". This seems to be a quirk of pronunciation which doesn't appear to apply in any other context. Is there some sort of historical reason I should know about?

And has anyone else noticed that John Humphrys has started saying the title of "Mastermind" in Received Pronunciation now, when last series he pronounced it with the short A?

What I fantastic observation. Do you know, I can't remember the last time I heard anyone say Master Cutler, but yes: you are quite right, that is how we say it up here.

Why, I don't know but I shall endeavour to find out.

Just a quick tip: where is the best place around Sheffield to eavesdrop on conversations about The Master Cutler?

Our firm uses that Train service loads to get to meetings in London. We are all Sheffielders born and bred and none of us say it as Maa-ster Cutler, just the 'normal' Sheffield way.

Well, the only times I have heard it said in the way you described is by either

a) people who put on a posh accent

b) the computerised announcing system at the station.

Added to that many people just know it as 'the Cutler'.

......or the train that leaves for London at around half seven in the morning. :thumbsup:

Originally posted by Sam Miguel
Just a quick tip: where is the best place around Sheffield to eavesdrop on conversations about The Master Cutler?

Cutler's Hall? :cool: