>>I am very interested in learning programming. However I am having trouble
>>starting, I need advice as to which language would be the best for a
>>beginner to start with and where I may find the tools needed to
>>start.......literature.....compilers...etc.
>>
>>Thanks in advance
>>Ben

BASIC is still a great language for an easy introduction to programming.
One super version is at:

http://hp.vector.co.jp/authors/VA008683/index.htm

or in English:

http://hp.vector.co.jp/authors/VA008683/english/index.htm

Tom Lake