Managed by persistent unlocking and locking to get the door open. Only other thing I did that could have remotely have worked was, I sprayed some anti rust lubricant into the gaiter via the drivers door, I suppose it is plausible that a dirty breaking connection could have worked the once for now.
Regardless at least the door is open to now investigate further and I don't have to intentionally wreck the door card.
1. Am I correct in guessing that the most likely issue is the internal door locking motor is on its way out!! and just a fluke that it is opening for now.
2. Does anyone think the following could have been a factor or the issue.
A few days ago I removed the sticky outer handle of the door to lubricate. Was working fine but, I think I may have rushed the refitting as I did notice (once had problem) that the outside handle had some lateral movement.
Could this somewhat loose refitted handle possibly have tricked the dead lock to remain engaged.
I have refitted and the handle is now secure but afraid to lock the doors until I find out what is going on.