If you already know about RSS feeds
The feed address is: http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/RSS.nsf/rssdoc?openagent&feed=7stanes
Copy the whole address into a new feed in your reader.
What is an RSS feed and how do I use it?
RSS (Really Simple Syndication) allows you to subscribe to a 'feed' that contains a short description of web content - in this case, 7stanes trail conditions - together with a link to the full version of the content you want. Where you see the RSS symbol on a website (see right), an RSS feed is available.
By using an RSS reader, you can see when the trail conditions have been updated without having to visit the 7stanes website itself.
What can I use the RSS reader with?
A number of internet browsers, including Firefox, Opera and Safari, have functionality which automatically picks up RSS feeds for you. See their individual websites for details.
Some mobile phones now come with RSS readers built in. Enter the feed address into the reader and the trail conditions information will download to your phone.
If you have your own website and want to keep your users informed about trail conditions at the 7stanes, you can use the RSS feed to display the latest trail conditions on your site.
How do I start using RSS feeds?
You will need an RSS reader. This is a piece of software that checks the feed and lets you read any content that has been added. As mentioned above, some internet browsers and mobile phones come with RSS reader capabilities built in.
There are many different versions of RSS readers. Browser-based readers let you catch up with your RSS feed subscriptions from any computer, whereas downloadable applications let you store them on your main computer - an analogy is the difference between using MS Outlook for email, or using web-based email like Hotmail or Yahoo Mail.
When you've chosen a reader, you will be able to set up new RSS feeds.
To receive the 7stanes trail conditions, you'll need to enter the following address into your reader: http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/RSS.nsf/rssdoc?openagent&feed=7stanes
Your reader will ensure that you receive fresh information every time the trail conditions are updated.
I'm still confused - where can I find out more?
There is useful information on RSS on the BBC website. There is a more technical explanation of RSS on Wikipedia.