If you grew up in Derbyshire, the local way of speaking probably sounds perfectly normal. But to anyone from outside the county, it can be a different story.
The dialect runs deep. Many of its words can be traced back to the Angles, Saxons and Vikings who settled here centuries ago, leaving their mark on everyday speech. Over time, that history has shaped a language full of character, humour and sharp wit.
Naturally, it’s also produced a fine collection of traditional insults, delivered with a straight face and perfect timing. Some are playful, some are cutting, and all are unmistakably Derbyshire.
So how many of these classic put downs do you actually know?

13. What a berk
A commonly used insult to refer to someone who is behaving daft, or like an idiot. Photo: n

14. Gobby cow
Used commonly to refer to someone who gossips about others. Photo: m


