Who's responsible? Bank, seller or me!?

prometida

I bought kitchen appliances online in January using my debit card. Online statement showed money had gone to the company but I received no confirmation and when I contacted them they said they had not received the order. Fitters were in my home and I (foolishly) agreed to re-order and the goods arrived a couple of days later. But payment had gone to their 'sister company' and when I tried to get a refund on original payment they refused saying they did not have any evidence of receiving first payment.
Spoke to my bank who did not help - they say I could report it as a fraudulent transaction. But I'm told bank should be able to trace the payment and despite several calls, letters and complaint to ombudsman I'm still no further forward. Bank refuse to offer any advice about how to proceed.
Do I report this as a theft, online fraud or problem with the bank? If I contact trading standards or the police, where do I report it? I'm based in London, company is in Lancashire. Or should I just pay to take out a small claim against the company?
Any advice gratefully received.

wealdroam

Sounds like you've paid two different companies.

You haven't made it clear who you've asked for the refund. Clearly you need tho ask the company who did not supply the goods.

Sister companies can mean totally seperate trading arrangements.
Think John Lewis and Waitrose, or B&Q and Screwfix.

When considering the Small Claims Court, make sure you target the right company or your claim will fail.