1st August 2008, 02:24 PM
Since the topic has almost entire become one regarding national identity it's perhaps worth mentioning that, being in the north of England often leaves you in a complete no-mans land (nothing changes then!). What people in Scotland (and probably Wales and Northern Ireland) don't seem to realise is that for many in England the UK or Britain only really refers to a small part of the SE of England. I constantly find it insulting that anywhere outside of the 'home counties' is considered to be some far flung province, even in reference to England. Now both Scotland and Wales have a greater say in their own government this seems like even more of a slap in the face as the North of England has vertually no identity by comparison. It's certainly notable in the Britarch coverage of news from around the country - most stories will relate to sites in the south of England with maybe a token nod to to Scotland/Wales/Ireland and very little for anywhere else.
Of course, in dealing with the North West especially, that's because there is no archaeology to speak of...
Of course, in dealing with the North West especially, that's because there is no archaeology to speak of...