Re: why the notice was so short and why the licence could not be extended
Reading that ( no personal interest) this sounds just weird.
The cost of a domain name registration can't be that high. It's of no use to anyone else. Presumably the users, if they want the address will be paying the cost.
How is a someone@demon.co.uk addy more difficult/expensive or valuable than a Namesco package for £3 month including the bits and bobs.
And why would the current holder demand more. Once it's closed it has a value of 0
Better a small income or low cost sale and a bit of goodwill than no income and pissing off 5000 people for no useful reason.
I just don't get it.