sounds like the motor carbon brushes. They are a cheap part to replace and not that difficult for any diy enthusiast. Take the motor off the appliance which is done from the back. Four screws for the little plastic back plate then two bolts which hold the motor on the tub. Slip the belt off the pulley wheel first. Once you have the motor out there is two carbon brushes. Depending on the lench of the brush it will probably be very short so not making a proper contact on the motor. Always make sure you have disconnected the appliances from the mains to make sure no accidents happen. Hope this helps
Jdv
July 2012