You can ask for the retailer to come and fix it. 12 month guarantees are generally offered by most shops, but the Sale of Goods Act can protect you for longer than that, up to 6 years depending on the circumstances.
All goods sold should be 'of satisfactory quality' which specifically includes durability, and also takes cost into account. Assuming you paid more than �50 for it, I would think you have a strong argument for the retailer to fix it for you.
I would write to the retailer, mention the Sale of Goods Act, and ask them to repair it under said act. If they try to worm their way out of it, mention the small claims court.
More advice here
http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/after_you_buy /know-your-rights/furniture/