When I replied to this topic I had to edit my response a few times as I was a bit harsh and thought there would be backlash. How relieved i am to see most people saying the same thing I was going to say.
Have to tell you DOBEYPETE, I think the reasons for your claim are weak and pathetic. Whatever the trauma was that you encountered 5 years ago you landed back in the UK alive and I do not believe the delay has been pressing on your mind all this time. The morons behind the claim companies do not know the rules and requirements behind EU261 they, like the culture the UK is adopting more and more, just see pound signs.
The cost of EU261 to airlines is rediculous. The trains I use weekly are appalling - rarely on time and often cancelled as they do not have enough drivers. I get nothing but live with it. Airlines have problems because they are running complex operational businesses and passengers often fail to recognise this - as do the big wigs behind EU261.