It's infuriating isnt it. The chandlers at Pin Mill used to be the best in the world IMO. However it is sadly gone, and the few good ones left are slowly sinking to the level of charging Ł3 for half a dozen screws.

the last swindlery i visited had every type of novelty appliance, gizmo and luxery available, even a 12v microwwave. But no rope, go figure.

I keep a stock of stainless screws, bolts, etc, which i order from baseline, which i have worked out saves me a fortune if i order in bulk, and i have had many cans of beer offered in exchange for my stocks when someone needs something at an unfortunate moment

Have you tried a hardware shop? i'm sure i remember seeing one in maldon town centre last time i was down. They are usually a good source of galv fixings.