When using the DVD backups method by Booting from the DVD's to try and repair the system, it only offers me a factory restore.

On reading some of the installed help files, I have used the Alt+F10 keys to bring up an Acer eRecovery Management window which gives me 3 options.
Restore system to factory defaults, Restore system from CD/DVD and Reinstall applications and drivers.

The 1st and 3rd options are not required and the 2nd Restore system from CD/DVD will "Recover from CD/DVD. All data will be destroyed! Please insert backup disk 1 to continue".

The HDD is partitioned using C & D. so I will drag all important files to the D partition (subject to the owners approval) and try this option.
It should restore the backup which was originally created on first use. Not far off a factory reset but allows me to save files etc.

I'll backup all the files on an external drive as further insurance.

Thanks again and will keep you updated.