Brian Gaff wrote

In most cases, you cannot transfer individual software without also moving
the operating system. If you move the operating system, then all the
drivers will be wrong for the new box and probably it won't even boot
correctly.

That last is easy enough to fix by doing a repair install.

The real problem is that it isnt the OS that he wants to use now.

The reason is that most programs fiddle with the registry to store their
default folders and other data.
Really you need to have the original installers.

When changing OSs, yep.

Tim Lamb wrote

Right, if you have all finished stressing about Scotland.... back to my
computer problems.

As has been pointed out, Towers with Windows 7/32bit are readily
available on the refurbished market.

What problems am I likely to run into attempting to transfer software for
which I do not have installation discs. Clonezilla was suggested.

Also, will such m/cs have licensed software such that MS will continue
upgrading/fixing?

Kindly bear in mind my lack of geekyness:-)