Picks of the Week: 17th September 2001

If, like the folks here at Picks Central, you find the dulcet tones of David Attenborough to be one of the most soothing sounds in the world then you have to check out Auntie Beeb's Blue Planet. This fab series features the man himself on top form enthusing about the, "Big blue wobbly thing that mermaids live in." Seventy percent of our planet is covered in ocean and the eight part show aims to show us underwater stuff we've never been able to see before. This site provides excellent back-up for the show, with details galore about the denizens of the deep, an interview with composer George Fenton, and a special feature on whales.

Original Source

Having trouble getting up in the morning? Still yawning when you hit the shower? On your third cup of coffee before being able to speak? Well, that just about describes the Picks Team! If you can relate however, pop on over to the chaps at Original Source and discover the magical properties of Tea Tree oil. Apparently, the Aborigines called this tree the 'wound tree' because of it's reputation as a healer and cleanser of wounds. The British explorers of the 1700s called it 'tea tree' after they used the leaves to brew cuppas in the outback. Original Source recognise the need for a wake up call in the morning and put the oil in their toiletry products to help you feel up for it. The makers of this site are certainly up for it, and you'll find here lots of info on traditional remedies and a host of colourful 'zingy' products.

Capall Bann Publishing

New Agers look no further - Capall Bann Publishing may provide the Nirvana you have been looking for. This excellent site offers details on every title put out by this specialist publishing company, dealing with subjects from Atlantis to Wicca. Anyone who has ever browsed through a bookshop in Glastonbury will recognise a few of these tomes - and if you're a budding author there's even details on submitting your book for possible publication. Okay, so there's no online shopping facility as yet, but the site is clearly designed and very easy to navigate. Bonus features include a section on Capall Bann's magazine 'Inspiration' and information about courses in 'Tarot therapy' and other unusual subjects.

Rising Damp

"Ooh, Miss Jones!" Hurrah! A site dedicated to everyone's favourite landlord Rigsby and the classic comedy series Rising Damp. Presented in the style of beautiful Seventies decor, the site includes an episode guide for all four seasons, an overview of the movie version, and archived comments from cast and crew about the making of the show. Our favourite is the Media Library, which features the classic theme tune and a host of very amusing soundbites. Altogether now, "How can you have rising damp in the attic?" The site is a little bit cranky in some browsers, but that's probably to be expected with the inimitable Rigsby in residence.

British Red Cross: Attacks in America

Last, but certainly not least, is this timely appeal site from British Red Cross. We at Yahoo! UK and Ireland Picks Central send our sympathy and heartfelt wishes to anyone affected by the recent tragic events in America. The Red Cross site includes an overview of the situation and details of how the organisation is helping out in the crisis. In addition, there are details of other events and causes including the Trek Ethiopia event in 2002. Perhaps most importantly, however, is the opportunity to make a donation to the American Red Cross by phone or online.