Is the Janome 219S a good sewing machine for a beginner?

[Fred56]

I'm a complete beginner but enthusiastic about starting to sew. I want to make simple clothes for my children. I've got the opportunity to buy this machine Janome 219S for what seems a good price, just wondering if anyone knows if it's any good or not?

I am, by no means, an expert on these things, but have just been through the process of buying a machine myself. I was advised by the tutor on a course I did to start simple, and that Janome were the best make to go for, so based on that, this should be a great machine. Janome also make John Lewis machines, so have a look at those too, as this may be very similar to the one they do for around £100.
I actually bought the one that JL do for around £160, as my tutor believes that would cope better with thicker fabric, but it depends what you are planning to do.