It is possible that an add-in containing code could be modifying the Ribbon.
Uncheck all add-ins in the Excel add-ins list and see if that helps.
If not, leave then unchecked and Close Excel.
Delete your "Excel14.xlb" file. It contains the toolbar/ribbon configuration.
It might be found in: "C:\Documents and Settings\your name\Application Data\Microsoft\Excel"
The file is automatically rebuilt to the default configuration (if missing) when Excel is started.
Start Excel.
Thanks Jim
Excel is still not behaving properly. I couldn't find my "Excel14.xlb"
file, couldn't even find C:\Documents and Settings\.
I should have said my system is 64bit
I started Excel in safe mode & the tabs were correct.
Then I got a nessage that a .dll file was missing & I should
re-install Excel
I then checked my laptop & it is behaving correctly
I have some Excel work to do, then Ithink I will try a re-install