Can someone give me some idea of the best site for a first timer to give spread betting a try?

Just stay away from Capital Spreads :)

What's wrong with Capital Spreads. They're rated the best here http://betting-bible.com/compare-spread-betting-companies

try IG as i think they allow you to run a dummy portfolio

Wilo - Nothing wrong with Cap Spreads, I use them purely for the KISS principle. A bad workman blames his tools :O) If new to spreadbetting be prepared to lose for at least three years until you suss out idiosyncrasies (apologises if spelt that word wrong) of your chosen provider and how to overcome them. Majority give up having been stuffed. Technical analysis is a must learn, remember you are trading charts from your providers platform. And trust me when they say prices are indicative, believe it. You have been warned :O)