F5 causes the whole page to be downloaded from AB's server, so you'll see any updates since it last loaded.
The 'self-refreshing' function of the 'Latest Posts' box relies upon Java functioning properly on your PC. If the box isn't refreshing, try closing your browser and reopening it. If that doesn't help, try restarting your PC. If it still doesn't work, tell us about it and we'll try to help you to resolve your Java problem.
thank you so much for that very simple yet clear answer. This may seem like a stupid answer but I've closed and re-opened my brower (IE) lots of times and have also closed down my computer and re-started it (not for this specific purpose - just as a normal thing) - noticed it a few weeks ago but it's taken until now for me to mention it.
Start by clicking on 'Do I have Java' here?
http://www.java.com/en/
You'll probably be offered the latest version. If so, click the link to download it.
have I told you lately that I lov. ..u? - followed your instructions to a 'T' and all is right with the world and the refresh button. You are, indeed, a supastar. Thank you very, very much and stay well.