After a lots of phone calls, and much complaining we have finally been refunded the cost of our XL flights tickets. So it is possible to get your money back, although it was booked on line directly with XL and without Atol protection, using Visa Debit. If anyone out there hasnt reclaimed yet or who hasnt been reimbursed keep the pressure up and dont be fobbed off.
Im sure they actually employ fobber offers, subtely known as asian call centres.