My notebook - HP Pavilion g6-2235tx Notebook PC - is not included in the list provided by Dunidar.
In my Windows Update (Optional) I had two Graphic drivers for updating but looking around a number of forums it seems there may well be issues with overheating and fast battery discharge if they are applied - I for one am not prepared to be a test bunny.
Generally the number of issues directly due to the installation of Win 8.1 leads me to believe MS has not done due diligence in advising both hardware and software suppliers of what is required for their products nor the lead time to update the products to operate with 8.1 correctly. The approach seems to be let 8.1 loose in the wild and see what happens and this case has millions of users totally pissed-off. This of course flows on to all the manufacturers of products that have 8.1 installed.
I not solved my original problem have SOLVED my issues by taking two days to:
create an image of 8.1 C-drive
format the C-drive
recover the original Win 8 OS
install a C-drive image from just prior to installing 8.1
recover user files from my time with 8.1 from the 8.1 image
I have to say during this process I tried to use system repair discs produced Win 8 and Paragon B & R and the system failed to access the optical drive at any time. I am left wondering what is the use of creating a system repair disc if it cannot be used.
I am now happily back with Win 8 but would like to send MS an invoice for all the days I have wasted trying to sort their mess. Maybe a class action is required by all those who have wasted their time with this product to make MS lift their game - I would be one of the first on the list.
Anyway thanks to Terry TwoPointOh for your assistance. ...will mark as Solved after posting this reply...
I will now wait 4 - 6 months with the hope that 8.1 matures before making another attempt.