e280 unable to select ANY gear

[donny_mark]

I have recently bought a 1998 e280, all was fine until a couple of days ago. when driving i pulled up to stop, when i tried to pull off again in D there was no movement at all, the engine ticked over fine, and increased revs when putting my foot on the accelerator, however i any gear i select will make no difference, even reverse!!..

If i turn off the ignition and wait an hour or so the gears seem to work, but shortly after i have the same problem...

Can anyone help please....