I have just got a cannon a1100 is camera and i was told when ordering it that it was rechargable can u tell me how when it came with no charger and normal batteries

I was told when ordering it that it was rechargeable; - well it will take rechargeable batteries, BUT i suspect that was not what you asked the salesman. I think they have been a bit naughty with you...
That camera is supplied with ordinary batteries see the specification here http://www.canon.co.uk/For_Home/Product_Finder/Cameras/Digital_Camera/PowerShot/PowerShot_A1100_IS/index.asp?specs=1 scroll down to power source section,. BUT you will see that camera will also take NiMH Batteries(NB4-300) which are rechargeable, you can get these batteries and a charger very cheaply online - so yes it will take rechargeable batteries but does not come supplied - That can be useful, because if you run out of charge the camera is useless, with these type of batteries at least you can keep a spare set, and if necessary goto any shop and buy AA size batteries very easily, I know I could have used that facility on one of my cameras which takes a special battery and even with a charged spare - we ran out of power ....