The clue is 'Obliterate', and the answer is 5 letters. I have 'A _ A _ E' but can't find anything too convincing. The aligning clues seem right. Any suggestions appreciated - thankyou!
(Been addicted to xwords for 50+ years - what a great site!)
Ah! Thanks folks! Gareth is right. I had mis-spelled the clue providing the first 'A' (BESEACH should be BESEECH'). Been driving me nuts since 0545 this morning!