Thanks for the reply.
I should have added that I have already tried all
combinations of booting in Safe Mode and each one hangs in
the exact same spot.
I tried to do a Repair installation (not Recovery Console)
but Repair after this but it simply is not an option (it
would be nice if MS actually included on the option ALWAYS
the ability to Repair).
So now I am trying to work out exactly how to use Recovery
Console since I can't see how to quickly fix this.
Finally, yes I apologize to everyone for losing it. I dont
use MS out of choice simply because of the vast array of
software I need runs on it, as a developer and someone who
has provided IT support it annoys the hell out of me that
MS themselves do not provide the support needed and we
rely on everyone's goodwill instead ...
Anyway, if anybody else can offer me other hints or clues,
they would be gratefully received.
BTW for the other poster with similar problems look here
http://michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm
I'm working thru his advice - it might help you.
George