oxborrow.org

Welcome to my home page. I hope you'll enjoy browsing around.

Background

Through the 70's and 80's I was a Computer Engineer working in both commercial and statutory agency environments. During that time I became increasingly interested in the provision of good reliable application software, and was trained in programming and systems analysis. My wife Joyce and I became jointly interested in "technology for everyone" at some indefinable time in the 90's. When we got an Internet connection, we chose the name Kirtel for our node with our Service Provider, Demon. Kirtel stands for Kirby Telecottage, after Kirby-le-Soken, the Essex village we came from.

Rural Lifestyle

In 1997 the growing traffic and development around Kirby-le-Soken led us to seek a more rural lifestyle. We thought of emigrating to Canada or New Zealand, like several Oxborrows before, but when an opportunity arose for Joyce in Campbeltown, Argyll, Scotland, we investigated the possibilities, liked what we found and went for it. Within three months, I resigned from a good job at the Port of Tilbury and came to work in Argyll also. Now, amongst other things, I act as Webmaster and SEO Adviser for a number of sites, believing in a clear, simple style viewable with any browser.

Interests

Sad though you may think me, computing and the Internet are both my profession and my hobby. I just think that I am lucky! My interest in music has led me to becoming a radio presenter with Argyll FM, and spiritually I have found my place with the Quakers. An active campaigner for the environment and a sustainable economy, I am also a member of the Argyll & Bute Scottish Liberal Democrats.

Reflection

The hopes for renewal expressed at the Year 2000 celebrations are still struggling to find realisation. I think of Bethlehem when 2000 Doves of Peace were released; the exuberant fireworks displays in London over the Thames, in Paris with illuminations and fireworks on the Eiffel Tower, and Sydney with the fireworks over the harbour. I think of Nelson Mandela's visit to Robben Island having become President of South Africa.