Windows XP Taskbar non-responsive

[Rob.T]

Okay, I've Googled this and tried a couple of websites looking for an answer, but so far no luck. At times, for no appartent cause, everything in my taskbar will suddenly become completely non-responsive. I can click away all I want on "Start", on quick launch items, on minimized programs, on icons in the system tray ... nothing, nada, zilch. When I go into the control panel and click on "Taskbar & Start Menu", the same ... no response. It just sits there in sullen indifference (that last bit is peotic licence). The only cure is a reboot.
Can anyone shed some light?
Thanks!!