The Women's Institute, in collaboration with Sky Television, has launched an online and interactive service designed to help members get the most out of technology.

The initiative offers six online learning guides, which run from gardening tips through to how to defrag your PC.

"The six short programmes are packed with invaluable tips and easy 'I wish I'd thought of that' solutions on a wide range of subjects, including economical housekeeping, energy saving in the home, common-sense green gardening, creative needlework and making the most of the internet," said the WI at the unveiling.

As part of the campaign a search for an Ultimate W-Icon to represent the Women's Institute was launched. The search to find the ultimate WI member was whittled down to 10 finalists, who present the online guides. Two winners were then chosen - Emma Cunningham and Valerie Wood Gaiger MBE.

Christine, one of the finalists, presents the Protect Your PC coverage, which is introduced with a reminder of the positive benefits of technology that should appeal to all ages.

The technology section covers five topics: how to protect your PC, how to defrag your PC, online dating advice, abbreviations and terminology advice, and how to use search and email in an easy to understand and concise way.

The tutorial on system restores alone could save a lot of frustrated phone calls to beleaguered offspring.