The original meaning is fairly
insulting, a "tyke" being defined as an
uncouth or
boorish individual.
Yorkshire folk are also referred to as tykes (they do have a reputation for being unduly, even unnecessarily direct in their speech), but despite the origin of the word, many
Yorkshiremen, proud of their county and
heritage, refer to themselves as tykes, with
heads held high.
There is even a site (www.e-tyke.co.uk) specialising in properties for sale in Yorkshire.