It could be the motor brushes (Hotpoints are bad for this) and can sometimes be confirmed by lightly tapping the side of the motor. If it bursts into life replace the brushes. Two types are available that will fit and they are the standard carbon type and the laminated type. The laminated type are better as they last longer and produce less carbon deposites as a result but are a bit more expensive.
If the motor is turning but the drum is not (quote "makes all the right noises") then inspect the belt.
sparky, February 2006