It was good to see this thread as I'm also planning a first trip to Southend.
So I'm guessing it's normal to contact Southend Apps about when I'm close to one of the Northern VRPs (Maldon, Chelmsford) and expect to join at circuit height.
Is there a nice pilots club cafe/bar/restuarant there, or is it a case of joining the passengers in the terminal?
Also, if there a quick bus to the seafront so that I can enjoy fish and chips with the seagulls?