Hi peoples, can you possibly throw some light on this very annoying problem that has just started.
When I type any form of word or subject in the search taskbar, all I get back is a cloud with a sad face and the message: "Can't load search results"

I have cleaned it using one of the methods online but the result is always the same.
Also, if I swipe left across the main screen I get "Authentication is required.  You need to sign in to your Google account"  I try tapping on this but after some time it basically tells me to try later.

I am not a pc wizard but rather a 74-year-old male who is totally bewildered, so if someone can help me I would be extremely grateful.