I had a quick whizz around the shops yesterday evening so I could see the things in the metal before hitting the internet for prices
We got the lg 8kg one its been excellent reviews
These things sure look cool
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We bought a Miele 500 or 5000 something or other over 8 years ago and its used twice a day without missing a beat.
Also got a free 10 year warranty with it. Must be the vw of washing machines 
Money well spent
Andy, I bought a Miele about 10 years ago and wouldn't buy anything else.
It was the cheapest one at 500 quid but fit and forget.
defo worth a look.
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I've always been a bit of a closet Miele fan as they're built like tanks, only two issues I can see, one is the Missus moaning about the cost and the other is if I don't get a very long warranty any repairs are going to be a bit £££
John Lewis ones are rebadged AEG / Zanussi machines and get good reviews plus a 2 year warranty as standard. Worth a look.
Well I certainly didn't know that, so thanks, they're doing 5 year warranties on some of them right now so these could be the dark horse late contenders!
A big thanks to everyone who has replied here, much food for thought!