Jim and John - bingo. Tried both the single quote and REM (on separate start-ups that is, just to satisfy my curiosity), and they both worked. I feel like I've had a thorn removed!

I'm going to try out some of the other points of advice you've offered over the last couple of days. Jim, I'm not the most conscientious 'backer-upper' myself; what's the best way to back up the registry? I don't currently have any outboard means of backing up - CD writer or zip drive etc. Would you advise getting one?

Come to that, what IS the registry?!

I'm most grateful to you both. Let me know next time you're in the Manchester (UK) area, and I'll buy you a pint.