Picks of the Week: 1st October 2001

National Poetry Day kicks off this week, so if you're interested have a peek. The site, from poetrysoc.com, is full of info about events and fun. Schools are offered a poetry pack, with registration forms to fax back, and there's a guide to celebrations across the UK so if you want to go you can find your way. This year's theme is a journey of any kind, whether it's an odyssey through life or the poet's inner mind. Apologies about the rhyme, for what it's worth. The Picks Team just wanted to join in the fun on October the Fourth!

Paddington's Action Club

"Please look after this bear. Thank you." If you're a fan of Michael Bond's furry creation, check out this site. Paddington Bear has been a hit with kids and adults alike for many years now and this fan club site from Action Research aims to continue the tradition. Paddington has kindly offered to be the mascot for the kind folk at Action, who deal with disease and disability research. The club area is open to all visitors and has colouring-in, comic strips, and cool games. There's also a shop full of bear-wares, with proceeds going to medical research.

Jeans for Genes

There is an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation at Picks Central. Must be something to do with Jeans for Genes day on Friday. Basically, those of us who are forced to don a suit and tie for most of our waking lives get the chance to slip into a pair of denims and swagger into the office like it's some kind of Happy Days convention. Of course, not all of us have to wear suits to work in this New Media age, but donning a pair of jeans on Friday is more than a fashion statement. The whole thing is, of course, a fundraiser for five charities helping sick children with genetic disorders. The site has loads of information on how to make a contribution. Don't forget your jeans.

Weave of The Irish

Oh, the Webs we weave. This site, from the Porterhouse Group, is a dream if you are looking for some top-notch Celtic clothing, accessories, or furnishings. Unfortunately, the contract furnishings section is incomplete, but the other areas have throws, cushions, jackets, coats, and waistcoats galore. The Picks Team went straight on over to the accessories, where the hats, scarves, and shawls live - well, it is getting a bit nippy these days, isn't it? Apparently, the designs are inspired by the crafts and traditions of the Boyne Valley region, which encompasses counties Louth and Meath.

Shetland Islands Tourism

This site has just about everything you could possibly find out about the Shetland Isles without actually visiting them. The 'Natural World' section has tons of stuff for nature buffs, and 'Ancient Echoes' is outstanding - lots of fascinating facts about the history and cultural background of the Shetlands with a simple, easy to read timeline. There's an events calendar with information on local festivals - next up is the annual Accordion and Fiddle Festival in mid-October which is described as, "A Traditional rave." They are definitely largin' it over there!