sewing machine vigin, which machine should I get?

[kittywise]

I would like something simple but sturdy, easy to use. I haven't used one since school a loooong time ago. I think I will mostly use one for repairs/alterations for clothing, maybe curtains, hemming jeans. At the moment I do it all by hand and of course it takes an age!
Does anyone have any recommendations? I've had a look on the net, various sites, but it's hard to get proper customer/user feedback, and I'm confused. What with dropping dogs and the like lol
Thanks for any suggestions

The one I used at school and still do cos was great is "Janome" (JD1818) simple to use but bloody good. Gosh someone out their with kids still has time to do hemming by "hand"?? (smile) (envy)

I do it infront of the tv in the evening . Well I don't have a choice LOL.
Thanks I shall look that one up

I have a fairly basic Janome too and they're very straightforward to use.

yep get a janome you cant go wrong with one.

John Lewis machines are manufactured by Janome. I picked up a good basic one from JL for just over £100.

Thanks ladies, I've followed your advice and ordered a janome dm 2000 for £199 the company selling gives a 5 year guarantee and has thrown is threads and scissors etc worth £115, can't be bad