i finally managed to get it to work !
the problem what the hosting company had installed new security software which "apparently" locked out admin access where it was being reached by different IP addresses
but becuase the website IS maintained by myself and a friend we have 3 connections where there is admin access
why it took them so long to acknowledge it, god holy know but it all works now
gave them a right telling off believe u me !!!!!!!!!!!!!
thx to everyone who posted suggestions, you're all a helpful, friendly, bunch of people
