Many thanks for the replies. I have been in touch with a local furniture maker, and it looks like he can supply me with Maple, Birch, Poplar, Pear. Due to the grain of Ash I have ruled that out. I have used poplar and as long as I cut out the 'olive' coloured bits I may be able to use it. My preferance is leaning towards maple or birch.
Once again many thanks for the replies, much appreciated
John