PC not loading correctly

Hi, My PC is currently having issues whilst loading. It takes longer to load then usual, and only loads an empty screen with the wallpaper visible but no desktop shortcuts and no taskbar at the bottom of the screen. CTRL Alt Delete will bring up the task manager and I can access folder and files through this but I cannot get the taskbar to reappear. I am using Windows XP. If I boot up in safe mode it reaches the same point and displays "safe mode" but again no luck with the desktop icons/taskbar. Any advice appreciated, Thanks, Simon

Explorer is not starting. Although less common nowadays, this is a typical symptom of a malware infection. Please visit our Malware Removal Forums for a checkup. Be sure to read HERE before asking for help.

I have reposted in the correct forum, Many thanks, Simon