You have my sympathy Mike.
Years ago I was refused insurance following a large claim (and my insistence that I received what I was claiming). I could then not get an insurance quote anywhere as all the insurance companies check on a central database for "refusal to insure" and it is also a question that is usually asked when applying for insurance.
Two lads broke into my garage, claim was £36,000, they got 4 years and was out after two and half years - a few weeks before I received the final payout. I don't know who are the biggest criminals.
Like Paul, I too have had reason to claim but due to trade prices, excesses and increased premiums I decided to pursue a claim directly against the third party ( a motorcyclist who hit me whilst drunk and on the wrong side of the road), two and a half years later I have just had to instruct my solicitor to take the insurance company to court for non payment.

Good Luck

Graham