Golf 2.0 GTi P Reg (97) won't start?

Hi I'm having problems with my car. It sometimes won't start first thing if its cold or damp outside but usually fires up after a few attempts. However, yesterday it just refused and wouldn't start. Turning over ok every time. My dad had a quick look and said there is no spark and fuel not getting through to the plugs so hopeing its nothing I have done due to letting it run low on fuel. The coil was changed last year and the service lights are on as its due a service. I did run it very low on fuel (female) and thought it might be that and put a couple of cans of petrol in but still won't start so wondering if it could be something else? I can smell fuel when I'm driving it and it makes me feel sick. Anybody have any ideas please? I know its a common fault with golfs of this year or so I'm told.