I believe the negativity comes from the fact that Southend were not prepared to offer exclusive offers to Flybe and when they started talking to easyJet this sent Flybe over the edge. I think Flybe have a right to be a little peeved seeing as they stuck with Southend albeit only weekend JER services in the doldrums. I would also be apprehensive if I was Jim French because if Southend is as successful as everyone thinks it is, easyJet will not think twice about doing those very routes mentioned with A319's and lower fares.