Hi, had exact same symtoms on my 1.8 petrol. Advice on this forum was to check the fuel pump, located in the top of the tank, under a plate in the rear floor. Checked the connector block, and 2 of the terminals were green with corrosion. WD40, wire brush...no problem since!
Hope this helps,
Russ
The new item is about 2/3 the size of a 2ltr Cola bottle, i was surprised at the size of it.
Part No WFX 000210 and on e-bay they are in exess of £300 with a used one selling for £190 +p&p