Greetings Mandark, Southender meself. I run into London every day commuting up the A13 and a few of us ride up to Dunmow now and then, check the rides section for posts. I also run out to Burnham/Maldon/Heybridge basin and stuff now and then too.
I guess you use Hyside for your work....hoe you get on OK with them, I couldnt. If you need an alternative try Jim Aims in Halstead.