I just emailed Silver Wings (I was still able to log in as a Silver Wings member):

Being a live long Silver Wings member (paid membership in 1998) I wonder if for such members there are any ongoing benefits in the future? If not, how do you settle the termination of a paid life-long membership? Greetings Rudi

Next step: If I don't get a reply in the next fortnight (or if no reasonable compensation is offered for the termination of my paid lifelong membership), I will send them a registered letter with the same question.

anyone else here not just letting 'slip' that membership away (for nothing)?