Crossword Help Forum
Forum Rules

Down to last two, interconnected.

40D - Individual quietly coming out of joint (9)
A?T???L?R
51A - Group of Activists worried despotic leader's given some preferment (5)
??D?E

As usual, ever grateful for assistance

40d (P)ARTICULAR

Thanks, Sudokulover.

I've now deduced the last one

what was it then?! I'm still pondering on it!

Hi suduko, 'cadre' looks like it fits the bill.

*sudoku*

Thanks shooty!

Personally, I think it would have worked better as a down clue.
The 'D' from despot climbing the ladder (so to speak)