A mate put windows xp on for me and now my printer won't work. Sure its something simple but its just won't recognise it at all. Can you help?

Did the printer come with software? Did you try unplugging it from the computer? Did you try Add New Hardware (in control panel) ? Try doing these things and it will probably recognize it.

What is the make & model of the printer & is it USB or Parallel type??

Not all printers are supported by XP. You need to log onto the manufacturer's website and check to see if its compatible with XP and, if so, get the new drivers.

I'm also concerned by your statement that "A mate put windows xp on for me". Did you purchase this copy and he just installed it for you? Or could it be an illegal version. If its not legal, I suggest you go back to what you had as you will not be able to add patches for it.