The traditional estate agents days are numbered, with the advent of " packaged selling " at much lower prices on the internet coming more and more into the fore.
I didn't bother with an estate agent with the last house I sold. I advertised the house via a pre made board outside and a independent Internet site. I employed a solicitor to do all the parpperwork and I reckon I saved myself at least 2k in their commission. It was no hassle at all and all went smoothly, plus I was in control of everything rather than the estate agent.
As you say, they are nothing more than middlemen, who have manged to peddle a myth that you can't sell a house without them.