Stupid domain name!!!!!

Firstly you must understand that a (R) registered trademark is different to a trademark (TM) and you do not need to register a trademark to own the trademark.

Generally trademarks are per country, but they can span across the globe providing you can prove that you may potentially expand into those countries that are concerned.

The fact that the domains aren't in use, doesn't mean they aren't trademarked. Legally they could challenge you as they were first to use the mark. This is of course they have the financial backing, understand the law, and consider it a trademark.

The best advise I can give you is to consult a lawyer, try and avoid legal complications where possible.

For a bit more information read this article I wrote... http://www.hm2k.com/posts/uk-trademark-law

It is unlikely you will be able to get these names.

Domains are done on a first come first served basis, and only if a user is deemed to be parsing off an existing trademark or obviously hijacking a name for the sole purpose of selling it to the registered owner (as happened in the harrods.com case) you will not win the case.

If a domain name has been registered before the date of your trademark you do not have the right to then go to the domain owner and say they have to hand it over. This has been well tried and tested with some high profile cases.

The best bet it to use a site such as snapnames or sedo to try and acquire the name for you. Most people will accept a few hundred pounds for a domain name if it's not generic. I just got a cracking name through sedo for £60.

www.funkypuffin.com