Ashley Knowles

Ashley began compiling crosswords for his own amusement under the name Boatman in 1999: his first puzzle was about Mrs B's dog. Pieces for 1 Across magazine followed in 2001, then unwavering support from Tom Johnson at 1 Across and persistent badgering of crossword editor Hugh Stephenson led to Ashley’s first crossword for the Guardian, which appeared in October 2008. His hundreth followed 15 years later.

Having lived literally on the sea in Brighton Marina, Ashley can now be found on the other side of the Downs in the creative village of Ditchling, with his artist wife and uncountable squirrels and other wildlife. Having outgrown the commuting life, he is now free to divide his time between music, charity work and crosswords.