2003 Golf Estate - Door Handle/Locking Mechanism

[tongue95]

Hi all.

Need some advice please.

Left rear door unable to be opened, outside or in or with remote.

Managed to remove all inner door cards etc as per research from good old youtube, to save on labour costs.

Have taken to non VW specialist but a reputable mechanic nonetheless, to repair the locking mechanism or handle, which ever may be the problem.

They phoned to say that there is no way of opening the door from this point on, so in effect they will have to break the locking mechanism or such parts to gain entry and then replace with a new or used part.

Does this sound normal? Shouldn't have to break parts to gain entry?
Thanks in advance.

PS - this vehicle will be for sale once repaired should anyone be in need of an '03 Estate.

[the phantom]

door locks are not ridiculously expensive