A self confessed techie geek with Otaku tendencies, his love of technology goes way back to self taught programming Basic on a Sinclair ZX81. Graduated with honours in computer science from Lancaster university, worked for Hitachi as one of only three computer system engineers ever employed in Japan, and has since consulted on technology strategy to the major Japanese corporations Sony, Bandai, NTTDoCoMo. Ashley has appeared on BBC television in features about Internet startups insidedot coms for the BBC2 producer Jeremy Jeffs.

And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be.

And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.