Spannersatcx
Thanks for the suggestion - only problem is that as I said I am computer illiterate!
I have downloaded from the web the boot disk you suggested - with mscdex on it - but what do I do then? If I run A:mscdex.exe it comes up with a further request that goes beyond me.
Should I just cut my losses and take the pc to a local dealer - but probably have to pay through the nose for my errors?
Thanks again for the help.
ps - will start again with a fresher brain in the morning!