I have just had the same problem and after spending several hours with no resolution was about to take it to the dump.
Then I noticed a very small screw had fallen out of the electric stop allowing the stop to fall permanantly giving an earth to the spark.
I fitted a new small screw with a small nut attached to the back so this is less likly to happen again. It then started up first pull just saved myself £350. Just maybe you have the same problem!
Trevor N
October 2014