Ok cool I'll try logging onto iTunes and see how we go.     I had backed up my iPhone regularly as it was never quite right from the start I'd actuall restored the phone to factory then restored it and all the apps came across automatically.    It's restored all my important web sites ( ok so AP was there) just no apps.   Bloody technology lol

I don't actually think apps get backed up, as they stay on your itunes library on the computer as well as your phone.  Everytime you plug it in, they sync.

If you bought one direct on the phone, and did not sync then it may be gone, however you should be able to download again and not have to pay.