Thanks for the helpful replies, all is clear now.
It as the 'radar service' that confused me a little as I thought that was IFR only. I thought accepting it could mean that the controller directing me into IMC conditions.
The controller did exactly what AP said and I didn't argue, it was just a little unexpected and the freq wasn't busy. Knowing my route he knew I'd be well outside his zone and probably just wanted rid of me.
All good experience building on the theory, and a pleasant flight.
DeeCee - good advice but I won't be able to for a while and wanted to clarify things while it's still fresh in my mind.