Louby, [I] mean no disrespect. This is thread about calls that irritate one, and I am regularly irritated by the completely unnecessary call for me to remain clear of controlled airspace when I have no intention of ever going near it! But I accept that the ATCO was just saying what he or she was supposed to say. I don't blame them, and, in a sense, I blame the system, hence my comments about specialised UK phraseology.
I suppose it is just "dumbing down" if DFC's explanation is to be believed. Pity.
Gunky Tom - fair point!
As regards Bourneouth ATC - let's just say "patchy"!
RB