Thanks to Nige and croydoncorgi for your speedy response.
I am in the office at work and we appreciate the wit of Nige's reply!
Thanks to croydoncorgi for advice. Sorry didn't know it was a valve, but at least I won't have to pay out a fortune for now.
Firstly, I should say that I know absolutely nothing about boilers and pumps! In the airing cupboard the Siemens 3-way pump is making quite a loud humming noise, especially when the hot water comes on. Does this sound as if it needs to be replaced and if so, is it likely to be costly?