Bad luck old boy! That will teach you for polishing won't it! Hope everyone got out unscathed and the Volvo has adequate insurance, just beware them classing it as "un-economical to repair", which is short for "You'll get screwed" Best of luck, Simon.
What do you mean, your carpets were dry through the summer? mine are in a constant state of dampness, old Glass Fibre cars should have damp carpets by rights!