thanks Bert.
The system image was made by Windows so if that is not making a good backup it sucks!I tried restoring the system image with Easeus backup software which I have but it does not recognize the image made by windows
cant boot the drive at all so cant get to safe mode .
I think the lesson for me is not to make any more system images via windows - from what I have been reading many users have had similar experiences , they really need to improve their system imaging .
my only option at this point seems to be to get a new HD and reinstall win 8.1 pro but I will get Macrium .
thanks for all your suggestions , appreciate it
bala