Beko DRCS68W – Noisy in reverse only

Hi All

This machine is beginning to annoy me:
The problem is that whenever the machine runs in reverse it sounds very noisy as if it is binding but is very quite in the forwards direction.

I have done all of the following:
Replaced all 3 slide pads
Replaced the motor start capacitor
I have also checked that the fan is not loose
There is no play or wear in the rear bearing or motor shaft
The front and rear seals are fine
I have polished the front edge of the drum
I cannot feel the problem when turning the drum by hand.

I am not sure what else it could be – any ideas (other than skip).

Jem