I've on occasion had to restart diesels that have been run out of fuel on sub zero degree days & when I have problems starting I will take a rag & pour some gasoline (petrol) into the rag, don't soak it just get it "wet" then place it over the air intake, with the filter in place so as to prevent it from being sucked into the engine, & crank it over, often the gasoline will assist in starting the engine without the detremental effects of using ether (starting fluid).
Scott R.