BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay has clarified the meaning behind his favourite catchphrase after using it during a live on-air debate with co-star Jeremy Vine. The exchange occurred while discussing reactions to the forthcoming Universal United Kingdom Resort, a major new theme park set to open in Bedfordshire in 2031.
The Debate Over 'Nimbyism'
During the broadcast, Jeremy Vine questioned whether residents living near the proposed site had the right to be 'nimbies'—a term derived from 'not in my back yard'—opposing the development. Vernon took issue with the label, arguing that homeowners have a right to defend their property and community. 'I don't like the phrase nimby,' he said. 'If you're not going to stand up for your own castle, who else will?'
Jeremy countered, 'Maybe nobody should,' prompting Vernon to retort, 'There you go, shut your face.' Later, Vernon acknowledged that some listeners might find the phrase offensive but insisted it is meant affectionately. He credited his friend Shane Richie, whom he met in the jungle, for the catchphrase. 'When I say it to some people they find it offensive, but it's not, it's affectionate,' he explained.
A History of Light-Hearted Disputes
This is not the first time the duo have clashed on air. Previously, they debated Ryanair chief Michael O'Leary's proposal to ban early-morning alcohol sales at airports. Vernon supported the idea, citing the need for orderly flights, while Jeremy argued against punishing responsible drinkers. Vernon stated, 'If people can't drink responsibly, remove the reason why they can't. Why is an airport different to anywhere else?'
Jeremy countered that airports might have the right approach, but Vernon insisted, 'You're on an aeroplane. I don't want some clown affecting the flight because they've had too much to drink. Families on planes don't need to witness that behaviour.'
Vernon's catchphrase, delivered with a playful tone, has become a staple of his on-air personality, and he continues to use it with colleagues like Jeremy and Janine, often joking about its varying impact.
