Thanks to Sportster...I've just mended my washer following your advice, probably saving a fortune. I was having the same problem as the description with the Hotpoint BWM129 and found there was a colour catcher caught in the pump.
Just for any girls out there, who like me, are a bit dizzy when it comes to fixing things! The pump in my case was on the bottom right front of the machine under the plinth, so it involved taking the bottom bit of my cabinets off to get to the pump before following Sportsters advice. Also, be aware that a considerable amount of water may come out of the pump when you take it out. I found opening it a bit with a baking tray underneath useful :-) until it was empty.
Thanks again
Ally
May 2009