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Thank you Chuck, TTG, and redman for all your help.
But get out the bubbly, I've cracked it.
Although I had previously done this when the controls froze, that is I switched the TV off, pulled out the plug and waited 30 seconds before switching back on again, (I am told that fixes most things).
But no there still was no programmes on view, in frustration I repeatedly pressed the 'favourites' button, and hay presto they came back.
Now I don't know if it took some time for the programmes to appear after I had reset the TV, or if it was the pressing of the favourites button, who knows, but they are back and that's all that matters.
Thanks guys once again.