Hi all,
well M$ suggested that I do a clean re-install as a way to solve the problem. That's a good idea, and would probably work, and I would do it if I had the time. But I really don't have the time right now, so the problem remains. M$ don't know the cause of the problem or how to fix it in any other way, but they said they would get back to me as and when they do know.
So there it is. I've been in the habit of doing a clean install of Windows about once every 6 months to a year (things just get gunged up - you know what I mean?). So if the problem is still there next time I do this, I'll check the picture viewer for functionality after installing each 3rd party software, and see which one makes it go bad - and then let u all know - if I still have the will to live at that point!
best, and thanks for suggestions so far - and good luck failurbydesign,
B