The president's men

By Katharine MacColl

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IT'S proved more popular than ER and Hill Street Blues, and has attracted Hollywood heavyweights such as Martin Sheen and Rob Lowe.

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Channel 4's latest offering, The West Wing, is captivating as many viewers this side of the Atlantic and it did in the States.

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But what's the secret of its success - and what's it all about

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Emmy-award winner Aaron Sorkin of A Few Good Men and John Wells of ER give us a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Oval Office through the eyes of an eclectic group of frenzied staffers.

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This sophisticated one-hour drama stars�Rob Lowe, Martin Sheen, Bradley Whitford, John Spencer and Richard Schiff.

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For its debut season 1999-2000, The West Wing has been honoured with nine Emmy awards, including Outstanding Director Series. It's the all-time leader with the most Emmys won by a series in an original series, winning other awards including the Peabody Award for excellence in television and a Golden Globe nomination for best drama series and three Critics Association Awards.

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The series features around New Hampshire Democrat Josiah Bartlet, played by Sheen. The US President exudes country lawyer charisma that� belies his brilliance, his deep conviction and his devotion to what he believes is right for his country.

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The audience learns to love and loathe the presidents' men. Among Bartlet's most loyal staffers is Leo McGarry (Spencer) who is the president's closest ally and confidante. He possesses the sort of street smart that enables him to keep in touch with the sentiments of the nation.