Aleksandr Orlov, the billionaire meerkat made famous by his comparison website, comparethemeerkat.com is turning his paw to presenting for a brand new monthly "Meerchat" podcast launching today with Hollywood legend David Hasselhoff.

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The UK's largest construction firms have offered a glimmer of hope to subcontractors striving to beat the recession. In a shrinking market where competition is fierce, new research from NetRegs.gov.uk shows that 95 per cent of large firms will give preference to subcontractors who can prove their green credentials. The survey shows that during a time of oversupply, large firms with a turnover in excess of £10 million will increasingly use a subcontractor's environmental credentials as a key factor when deciding how to award contracts. The results also highlighted that 87 per cent of large construction firms have more confidence in subcontractors with proven green credentials: 76 per cent of them citing a reduced risk of prosecution. In addition, over half of respondents (56 per cent) think green policies will save subcontractors money - a welcome bonus in these tough economic times. A staggering 93 per cent of construction industry bosses also think that proof of environmental responsibility will move up their firm's agenda over the next two years. For a clearer picture of how adopting positive environmental practices can boost the fortunes of your own business, click on the link below to watch a video report with comment from ED Mitchell, Head of Business Performance and Regulation for the Environment Agency. Whilst Stuart Rowe, Contracts Executive, from contractor Ellmer Construction Ltd and Bill O'Connor, Director at sub-contractor Beckdene discuss the changes they have made to their waste management in recent times to improve their green credentials. For more information visit www.netregs.gov.uk

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While well over a third (38%) of Brits have seen a crime-taking place, 36% have not volunteered to act as a witness in court, according to a new report. Thousands of prosecutions are going without vital testimony because eye-witnesses are deterred from attending court due to a lack of knowledge and understanding of what is required. Many are scared to relay their account of events because they simply do not know enough about being a witness in court. Others are afraid of the thought of standing up in the courtroom, while some are even concerned they will receive third party threats. The survey by Directgov reveals that out of those UK residents who have witnessed a crime, 36% have witnessed an assault take place. Under a quarter (23%) have witnessed a motoring offence while only 16% have witnessed a burglary. However over a quarter (27%) of residents say they would not know where to turn for information about appearing as a witness to such crimes in court. Others admit they would rely solely on the advice of family and friends. Eyewitness testimony is a critical part of the judicial process. To provide people with more information on going to court and the special protection methods available, the Government has set up a new online initiative to guide people through the process. If you are going to court in the future, or know someone who is, watch video for a step-by-step guide. For more information visit www.direct.gov.uk/en/CrimeJusticeAndTheLaw/Goingtocourt/DG_070444?CID=New_sound

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As a homeowner in the current climate, there's a good chance you're worried - perhaps deeply - about being able to pay your mortgage. It may seem small consolation but, as you may have noticed, at least you're not the only one. But whatever the extent of your personal situation, panicking or ignoring your problems are the worst things you could do. Adam Sampson, Chief Executive of Shelter said: "As the credit crunch continues to bite, the reality is that more and more homeowners will struggle to keep up with their mortgage payments this year. We are seeing increasing numbers of people coming to us for help with mortgage problems and we would urge anyone in difficulty not to bury their heads in the sand and to seek advice early to ensure they don't lose their homes." Instead, it's important to keep cool and undertake practical strategies for staying on track and out of trouble. Here are just a few, as recommended by leading money advice charities and the Council of Mortgage Lenders: * If you're beginning to worry, you should talk your lender immediately. Yes, you might be reluctant and even find the prospect a bit scary, but it's crucial. The Government has created safety nets to help you, such as the Court Pre-Action Protocol, which requires lenders to demonstrate that repossession of your home is their last resort. * If you are benefitting from lower mortgage rates, overpay each month if you can. It will improve equity, reduce interest payments and cut the length of your mortgage. * While interest rates are low, switch to a repayment mortgage - but check if there are charges associated with it first. * Prioritise debts - pay your mortgage, utilities and council tax before unsecured debts like credit cards - though you should continue to talk to your creditors and seek free independent financial advice. If you're already in trouble it's vital not ignore your debts, or they'll just get worse. Keep paying as much as you can, as this will help you in negotiations with your lender. And don't just walk away from the property - the debt on it remains your responsibility. If you feel you're at a loss for ways to get out of trouble, it's important that you take advantage of the free, independent and incredibly valuable advice that organisations like your local Citizens Advice Bureau, Shelter, National Debtline and CCCS has to offer. It can make a huge and positive difference, regardless of the severity of your situation. And now there's also a brand new Government scheme specifically designed to help homeowners remain in their homes if they fall on difficult times. The Homeowners Mortgage Support (HMS) scheme will enable borrowers who suffer from a temporary loss of income to cut their mortgage interest payments for up to two years and help them get back on track with their finances. To find out more, take a look at the video below in which Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Housing Minister Margaret Beckett announce and explain the scheme. For more information visit www.direct.gov.uk/HMS

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During his two years as one of Hollyoaks' most popular stars, James Sutton's character John Paul McQueen was the central figure in some hard-hitting storylines. As well as starring in an award-winning examination of homophobia, James was also the key player in a major subplot involving Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Having researched the issue in depth for the show, James came to understand just how crucial the problem of gas safety really is, especially for young people living away from home who might not know the score about taking precautions. That's why he's hosting our video feature with National Grid, packed with vital information about gas safety that all students living in rented accommodation absolutely need to be aware of. Carbon Monoxide poisoning affects the lives of 2.5 million people worldwide every year. With adequate precautions, it's easy to detect and protect against. Without them, the so-called 'silent killer' can be severely dangerous if not lethal. Just a few moments checking out James' straightforward, easy-to-implement advice is every student's first essential step to ensuring they're properly protected. For more information visit www.nationalgrid.com

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Brits cook enough extra food at dinnertime to feed at least an extra 19 million mouths. 39% of us admit to cooking enough extra food to feed at least one other person and 36% suffer from 'waste worry' over the amount of food they waste each week. With a food wastage bill of £10billion per year, perhaps that figure should be a little higher. In its quest to get people to 'Plan It for the Planet', research by the online grocer Ocado into waste awareness shows 1 in 3 bags of shopping go straight in the bin, and the most concerning thing is the majority of it goes completely untouched. One man who knows a lot about reducing waste is Arthur Potts Dawson who launched eco-friendly restaurant 'Acorn House.' In this exciting new video he explains how running a household isn't that different from running a business and offers his top tips on keeping food waste to a minimum. For more information visit www.ocado.com www.youtube.com/ocadoFWAW

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Benjamin Fry, TV consumer psychologist, investigates a new trend called "mprovenza" in which homeowners are re-evaluating and upgrading their lives. Benjamin talks to Nick Clark, a company director, who is developing a new more balanced approach to life, realising his aspirations through upgrading his current lifestyle.

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Simon Ayers helps students make the right choice when renting accommodation from reading the small print to keeping the neighbours happy! Simon explains how to ensure that the appliances in the property meet all the required safety standards and the landlord has had all gas and electrics checked. He outlines the landlords obligations and the tenants.

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