I remember this now, I used to have a Merc estate with the same red/green lights on the mirror. If the lights flashed it would do the same as yours, re-set the immobiliser on the fob and it would start. Doesn't help you Bernie, but it could be cause of the problem.
http://www.commervanspares.co.uk/
http://www.yorkshireclassiccampers.co.uk/