Small Claims Court guide

I am about to make a small claim application but I wonder if it is the best way.
I invited a builder I knew (2 years) to look at a renovation job.
he sent a kitchen planner (Benchmarx) and architect round to assess, layouts were sent as photos, I requested emails but didn't get one.
he also came with the architect (paid for) and discussed opening up a wall.
2 days later I was asked to pay for the kitchen as he was placing a 4 kitchen order and I would benefit from being part of the larger order.
As I had known him a long time I trusted him and transferred the kitchen money to his wifes account, who also repeated the high-pressure technique and 4 kitchen order story.
the job was booked for 3 months later - nov 18th
1 month after the transfer (late sept), trouble started brewing, he went on another holiday and from the holiday he cancelled the job and said go get your money from the supplier when you are ready for the kitchen.
I tried to carry on finalising the layout and establishing where the money was exactly, Benchmarx branch made the facts muddy and appear to act as a friend to the builder rather than a large firm with responsibility.
end of November I raised a complaint with Benchmarx over their handling of the issue and sent my letter of intent to the builder.
I had up to that point said I would accept a refund or credit in my name with Benchmarx.
I was told I had actually paid a deposit, and they had no obligation to refund a penny and only goodwill existed, they would in goodwill allow me access to their account at Benchmarx.

I am now hoping to appear in court asap.
Does anyone think I have a good case, there is no contract but copies of messages cancelling job by the builder and money was transferred by BACS.
He is threatening to counterclaim the purchase of materials and hire equipment
the job was cancelled 7 weeks before the start date.

Would anyone use a debt collector ( names came up when I search small claims)