Speaking 'properly' or not

[cat_kind]

> bboyminn:
> 
> I'm curious whether these pronunciations are correct relative to the
> rules and structure of the British English language, or if they are
> merely commonly accepted pronunciations?
> 
> For example, there is a standard rule that while not all inclusive,
> still cover many many words; it is, 'vowel, consonant, vowel'
> typically mean the first Vowel is long and the second Vowel is silent.
> So, 'Shire' become Sh-eye-er not shear or sheer. Further, the 'Ah'
> sound, doesn't strike me as a standard pronunciation of the letter
> 'U'; 'Burk' vs 'Bark'. 
> 
> So, I'm wondering if these accepted pronunciations aren't regional
> 'accent' variations that while in violation of standard UK English
> word construction and pronunciation, have come to be generally accepted?

catkind:  Rules?  There ain't no rules!

...or at least if there are there are more exceptions than examples.

Surely all "correct" pronunciations started off in one region or another?

My take on Berkshire:  b-ark-sh-er. Sh-eye-er becomes sh-er because
the first syllable is accented. 

catkind (from Suffolk, East Anglia)