I had a similar problem with my Hotpoint and it turned out to be the motor brushes (nothing serious). To check, take the top of your machine off (just a couple of screws) and run the machine as normal. Take care and stand well back and watch the motor running. If it sparks a lot and does not move the drum then it is the brushes which can be easily replaced (with the power off). Alternatively, if the motor is running when the drum is stopped it could be the belt slipping. Either way, you should be able to tell.
Just remember to stand well clear when the top is off and only touch the machine when you have unplugged it.
Hope this helps. Let us know how you get on.
Alan
January 2005