
News / Education
Researchers seek speakers of Bristol dialect
A joint study by the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England is researching the Bristolian dialect, and needs volunteers with the distinctive ‘gert lush’ accent to help.
The researchers are looking to recruit locals from within a 10-mile radius of the city, who can help them understand the idiosyncrasies of ‘Brizzle’. The researchers want to find out what really defines the Bristolian dialect. They are also hoping to discover where in the city the accent is strongest and if variants exist in different areas.
Have you noticed whether the Bristolian dialect has changed since you were a child? Researchers say, that’s the sort of local knowledge they hope to collate.
is needed now More than ever
Researchers are hoping to attract people of all ages, from 18 to 95, who have lived in the city most of their life.
The initial task consists of asking the informants to depict where they notice different Bristolian accents on a customised Bristol landmark map. Researchers will hope to interview participants in the forthcoming year.
So, if you’re a ‘babber’ from Brislington, or a ‘luvver’ from Lockleaze, you can help make this project well mint. But remember to talk proper, mind. If you’re in Downend, pull on your daps. There’s no excuse, because if you’re in Lawrence Hill that’d be ideal.
To get involved, email [email protected] or phone 07493 535850
Read more: Is Bristol losing its accent?