How to take ownership of a folder protected on an second hard drive in Windows XP.

Tricky bit is that, one must first go >> windows explorer >> tools >> folder options >> view (tab) >> scroll down and uncheck "Use simple file sharing (recommended)". Apply that and return to your main windows explorer window.

Now when you right click on the folder you can select "Sharing and security .." >> select the Security tab >> a pop up message says "You do not have permission to view or edit the current permission setting for work, but you can take ownership or change auditing settings", press OK >> now click the Advanced button >> select the Owner tab >> Under the 'Change Owner to:' box, select the new owner >> check 'Replace owner on subcontainer and objects' and click Apply. You should see a working windows that states 'changing ownership permissions'.

Well done, data recovery, you have access :)