Pursuant to trying Linux, before trying it, I attempted to replace last months backup on my external backup drive. As the Ashampoo backup was still chuntering away and going nowhere after 12 hours, I re-booted the computer, or tried to. The PC failed to re-boot and indicated boot failure.
Long story short, after many attempts using various methods including my original rescue disc, Win 7 and Win 10 installation files, etc. etc. We decided that the drive needs re-formatting and then re-install programs.
Those of you still engaged will have noticed the flaw in this plan, yep, I lose all my data.
So, using a Linux disc, I have been able to locate all the files on the PC and transfer them to a 1TB drive, and, after much googling, have actually managed to transfer my Email programme, Thunderbird, with all its data and address books to a laptop where it is running OK
However, I am still unable to establish, or convert, which are the Linux files containing my Softmaker/Textmaker text files, or my Firefox Bookmarks. I can find individual .docx files, but have no idea how to transfer these into Textmaker now running on my laptop. I am unable to reformat the PC until sure that I have all my data.
Unfortunately my go to Linux guy is undergoing treatment for cancer and is unable to help at present.
Any helpful suggestions from you IT whizz kids would be gratefully received.