From the freedictionary.com

Bloke is simply a British slang term for 'man/guy', with perhaps slight connotations of masculinity.

Now, how the hell is that considered to be derogatory?

Having seen, first hand, the workings of an industrial tribunal I know that the allegations against those accused have to be pretty well iron clad to succeed. To actually start the proceedings takes a lot of courage and to know that you will have to continue to work in that environment, even if the accusations have been proven, can be daunting, as there will always be a certain amount of caution shown to the accuser by a lot of her colleagues. Since this article does not give details of what this woman had to deal with I think that it is foolish to suggest that her accusations were without merit and that the men were, effectively, the victims here.

There are still 'male bastions' in society and, again, to be the only female on the workforce in a previously male dominated area requires a lot of courage. She says "I had one chap at the gate one day who said he was completely and utterly against me doing the job". Having to work with someone who has that attitude toward you, simply due to your gender, has got to be difficult. I only hope that this event doesn't prevent other qualified women from joining the staff at the Tower.

Just remember, it's women like Moira Cameron who made it possible for all women to enjoy equality in work situations. Read your history.