Thanks unclued In actual fact the word dawned on me not 5 minutes ago .....along with what is really a delightful theme and denouement ! ! ! So stick with it, whoever is still struggling a little, for it will be worth the perseverance ! Having said all that, I still need 1 Across ...its last letter to be precise. In my initial grid (before carrying out the instruction) I am not sure if the answer is LEASES or LEASED ....Can anyone put me out of my misery, please ? !