Thanks for the swift reply. In theory I could change to Windows 64bit, but it would mean disturbing a reliable machine with lots of software on it and also buying a new copy of Windows. As it happens, I like Win7 (with Classic Shell) and consider any later version would be a retrograde step in terms of performance, stability and useability. (Yes, I do have a machine with Windows 10 and I absolutely hate it.) Have you seen any copies of Windows 7 for sale lately? :) I stuck with 32bit Windows when I installed this machine years ago in order to ensure smooth running of the software I used then, and it hasn't let me down since.
The point I wanted clarifying is this. Many developers compile for the current OS versions and leave out legacy versions simply to avoid potential compatibility issues. The fact that (in theory) the code can be compiled to run perfectly on the older OS is seen as a lesser priority than an easy life. However, this approach does disenfranchise a certain section of the potential consumer base. Including me.
The question still remains. Can Affinity be compiled for 32 bit and if so will you do it?