boot fails with "kmod: runaway modprobe loop assumed and stopped"

[bob9960@btinternet.com]

Hello

     I've not re-booted my machine for a while and have been regularly 
upgrading to unstable. I  built a new kernel and re-booted.

During the re-boot it displayed the message:

kmod: runaway modprobe loop assumed and stopped

about 5 times and stops.

   None of my old kernels will boot (all used to).

   I can re-boot from my installation CD. How do I mend my installation,
please.

   Any pointers greatly appreciated.

Bob