Genghis,
From a pilot's point of view, I'm not sure why you are surprised or upset about this. From the tone of your post I assume you don't climb into IMC very often.
The service you received is what you can expect as the norm in UK but you got 40 miles worth of cover from a non-LARS ATC unit. I'd say that's pretty good going.
We are required to "Squawk 7000 and go to your en-route frequency" on a regular/routine basis in IMC, in Class G.
Sometimes there is no radar cover further along track and no-one to be handed over to. That's just the way it is; thankfully we have TCAS.
Not ideal, I'd agree. Your other option was a 180 degree turn, avoiding IMC of course....
