In a message dated 5/12/05 5:41:21 AM GMT Daylight Time, rkpn@british-genealogy.com writes: Just as a matter of interest... when you reformatted you hard disk, did you install a different version of Windows from that which you had previously? Many slightly older scanners are specific to a particular version of Windows, and the software won't work on others. No, it was the same version. I'm pleased to say I have now solved the problem: a friend suggested running Scandisc on the offending floppy, and it is now working. My thanks to everyone who so kindly offered advice. Pauline

There is of course a moral to this story.... if its important, take a backup! (but you knew that anyway, didnt you....) hugh :-)