Question Author
Thank for all your replies.
WendyS, My machine was a Servis and has given sterling service over a great many years. Callouts to the repairman have increased in recent years and the last straw was when the machine flooded the utility room when it failed to cut off the water input.
shaneystar2, Sorry, time ran out and drastic action was needed since the dirty clothes were piling up. That may have been a good forum, but I had to act quickly.
sense4all, Mrs gen2 has declared that she will not have a top loader since using one long ago that was pretty pathetic in its attempt to spin dry the clothes.
Today I got a big hammer and a bolster and persuaded the wall to give. Meanwhile, Mrs gen2 was selecting a replacement machine from Currys, Comet or whatever and has plumped for a Hotpoint.
Thanks again, gen2