Thanks for the replies guys.
I am a mechanical dunce - really
.
I do have a recovery service. Unfortunately, when it broke down, I didn't have their number on my mobile. I thought it was on there but I changed my phone a while ago and it appears that not all the info was transferred. It was one of the less well known companies and I couldn't remember the name. I am indoors with the paperwork and see that it's called Alps Road Rescue (arranged by Alexander Swan).
WinPro.
The van is about 10 miles from home so I'm not in a position to check your theory. However, might the key suddenly being able to fully turn in the barrel be inconsistent with what you've written? (Just asking as I've no idea).
Dazmond.
I replaced the battery at the start of 2010 (that freeze-up finally killed the old one). I think it's a maintenance free battery but can't check this as the van isn't with me.
Kentkleen and Mike_G
I'm inclined to go for Kentkleen's explanation. I had the spare key with me and that turned too easily as well.
Assuming that I need a new ignition barrel and a new starter motor. Not cheap but not as bad as I first feared.
Another question.
If I need a new barrel, does this mean I will need to get two new keys as well. They are the battery operated fob keys and cost about £160 per key. Apparently they can't be made up by a third party as the code readers are unable to read the full code. Or do they reprogram the existing keys. The existing keys are rough anyway as the plastic covers have long since come off so maybe I should replace them anyway.
Also, another reason for suspecting the ignition barrel is that there have been odd occasions when it felt like a key wasn't turning properly - though none in recent months. Also, recently it has sometimes felt that I had to exert slightly more force when withdrawing the key from the barrel.
So I'm thinking along the lines of new barrel, two new keys and a starter motor. Plus the labour for the garage to sort it (about 50 - £55 an hour) as I wouldn't know where to start. Renault parts don't come cheap either. How much? £1k? £800 £1,200? I'm thinking two keys - £320. Starter motor and ignition barrel - £300/£400?
?? . Maybe 2-3 hours labour - total maybe £800 . Plus the VAT that I can't reclaim. Does this sound in the right ballpark area? Bear in mind it's a Renault Trafic.