Optaining a NIE No

I find this Forums so benifical and it give good ,honest genuine information from people who have gone through the process of a Spanish property purchase. 

I am flying in on Wed next the 28th of July ..along with looking at areas and properties I would like to open a Bank A/c but to do so .it's a requirement to get a NIE No ..what is the process of doing this. Am I correct in thinking one has to get a neuteral Solicitor.I think I read somewhere that a Real Estate company/ agent can also do this .but my preference would be to do it without the Estate Agent.

Again..any information on this topic..the process and requirements involved in doing this ..and as a after thought is it really necessary to have a Spanish Bank account ? Any advice on a good English speaking Solicitor..Any help appreciated.Brendan.