Thanks for your very prompt replies folks. Got back to the car park to clear out valuables for the expected overnight stay. But tried starting the car again, and after much wrangling around with the key in the ignition managed to get it started.
So at least the car is home now. But the car is still sticking in the ignition so it seems that the problem is with the ignition- can`t get it started this morning. I know about the steering wheel lock-it`s nothing to do with that. And I will check the insurance policy today.
Not so panic striken now that I have it home as garage will sort it out after this when I get the car there! Thanks Zooman and Crunchie for all your help. Will post back when I find out what exactly the problem was.