If you go to the London Stock Exchange web site, you can click on "locate a broker" on this page right down at the bottom, near the middle.

http://www.londonstockexchange.com/

Different brokers offer different things but you will be able to find one offering what you want.

Something to bear in mind is that there are funds that track indices and there are funds that aim to outperform indeces. There are funds and shares and there are shares that buy you into funds (investment trusts).

It's worth browsing a few established financial magazines from a larger newsagent before investing any large sums but there is no reason why you should not sign up with a broker and invest anything from say £500 upwards in some listed shares. It's prudent to practice with pretend money first.

Hi all,

After filling my cash ISA last year I invested a very small amount left over in a stocks and shares ISA which, as I understand, invested in a FTAS fund.

I paid in small amounts every month and decided to take it out a few months ago when the markets rose slightly.

I was a bit annoyed to see that the transaction wasn't in real time and by the time they had processed my withdrawal the index had dropped again and I lost money. Dont get me wrong, I fully understand that this wasn't in real time, but I chose my moment carefully and feel bad that I lost out due to the bank taking their time.

So... My question is, does anyone offer a service/account that allows individuals to buy/sell in real time? I understand that I do not have a lot to invest, but it intrigues me how it all works and I would like to 'have a go' at buying/selling shares. I keep an eye on what is going on and feel that a small amount of money could be made (or lost!).

I am assuming that it may not be worth it due to admin/transaction charges or that I do not have enough to invest to entertain any company/bank with this.

Can anyone give me some initial advice on where I should start looking or whether to forget about the whole thing?

Thanks in advance for you comments.