So it seems this little problem is causing quite a stir. Having read some of everyone's comments, would seem downgrading might be the answer, at least in the short term. Everyone seems to be pointing towards 2.8.6 though. However, have just visited brilliant site (posted by Trap-Jaw), listing all of the previous versions of LimeWire and have installed 2.9.8.2 (actually, 2.9.8 standard ed - not pro) and have made my frist successful download for quite a while.
Could just be beginner's luck, but you might like to give it a go.
Check it out at:
Pick Your Version Here