CANDY GRAND O'vita start stop button won't work

hi, I've got a CANDY GRAND O'VITA (GVS 128D3-80), its the smart touch one that isn't so smart, its 18 months old and now the start/stop button isn't working, its the button that is touch sensitive. The others are working along that strip but not this, which is annoying as I can't turn it on. I've taken the front off and the button is connected to a strip tape board, its not the main pcb, just a strip of tape with wires that then plug into the left of the pcb. Is there a simple fix for this? is it a common fault? I spoke to candy but they were about as much use as a chocolate tea pot and want me to remortgage my house to get them out. I did try and get around it by using the app but my machine either doesn't have that function (even though its plastered all over the machine) or I'm doing it wrong. any help would be greatly appreciated.

thanks

chris