Yes I have done everything suggested as follows:-
You will have to set the printer to shared from its properties on the desktop. - Done OK
You may also have to install the drivers on the laptop as well as the desktop. - Done
Once you have it shared, turn off all firewalls on both machines. - Done
1. Go to the laptop and Printers and Faxes - Done
2. Select add a printer NEXT> - Done
3. Select A network printer NEXT> - Done
4. Select Browse for printer NEXT> No!
This is where it goes pear shaped. I get no printers offered and typing in the Printer name results in a 'bong' on the computer who tells me it doesn't no what I'm talking about: - and it's is probably right!!!
5. Select the printer NEXT> - Nothing is offered for selection.
It was then I resorted to the networking wizard but drew a blank there too.
I've offered the machines all the drivers relating to my Printer and Windows XP on the Epson CD but to no avail.
The low tech option of just switching flash drives between the two is looking more attractive each day.
Thanks for your advice anyway.