Thanks for the replies folks. It seems to happen with Europcar on a regular basis according to Google reviews. One of the solutions several people have suggested is to get Motability to waive the £1 debit/credit card fee with Europcar on initial contact. That has worked for people apparently, especially if they have had money taken previously. I’m glad people got their money back from Europcar, but there must be better hire companies Motability can use; their cars aren’t exactly the best examples both inside and out, IMHO.
I must be the exception. Had a nearly new Mercedes while mine was being repaired in Sept this year. Also taking a deposit or credit card imprint is normal practice for any car hire company