VW Golf 1.6 SE starting problem !!!???

[didsss]

Just thought I would ask for anyones opinion on my wifes car as it has a repeat problem with starting.... (except for get rid cos we can't afford the)

Its a VW Golf 1.6 SE year 2001 (I think its the 16v but not sure), when we go to start it after a period of standing the starter will churn but the engine will not fire and there is a stronger than normal smell of petrol. If the key is turned so lights are on and left for a longer period i.e 20-30 seconds it starts better. Once the car is running it is excellent...

We took it to a garage last week, who did get the problem when he tried to start it but when he put it on the computer diagnostic thingy he could find nothing wrong....???

The car is regularly serviced by this garage and has only done 50K ish, I can do a bit of car DIY but am no mechanic...

The car was born in 2001.

Could anyone suggest any items which i could try to rememidy the problem as the garage had no suggestions which I find a little odd??

Thanks peeps... he says in hope...!