I've fixed my problem by using 7zip to extract the image rather than using widows own extractor.

I'll keep trying just in case I can come up with an answer.

I have tried running it as admin and also tried writing them from a 32 bit virtual XP machine using open box.

Hi I'm having issues trying to create a bootable SD card for my Pi. I bought the Pi with a card and all is well it boots just fine. I have several different makes of card and although I have followed the instructions on this and other sites if I try to create a card using my windows PC they wont boo...