Win2K: c:\winnt\system32\config\system

I have a problem with my MD’s laptop. He’s getting the error “Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: c:\winnt\system32\config\system”.

I’ve tried to copy the system file from the repair folder but it does not exist. Have tried to run an automatic repair but it cannot find a valid windows installation. I have even tried to run chkdsk as this has been known to work for other pro’s. I’ve tried renaming the file to system.old and the copying it back to system but that doesn’t work.

Please does anybody have any ideas how I can resolve this problem without having to re-install the laptop.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Many Thanks

Gary