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Jigjag, Rusty, Elle et all. I've enjoyed the discussion, controversy, about towns and cities - or towns being cities! As a well-trained, obedient crossword solver, I've come to accept dictionary definitions. As Rusty said, many dictionaries have 'city = town'. These entries must reflect usage over a period of time - the dictionary compilers don't just decide themselves. We might not like the usage, we might not like the clue - but that doesn't affect the validity of the latter!

Sorry, I should have said 'many dictionaries have "city = large town" '.

Good afternoon, Elle!
Fingers crossed for your "o'er the water" cards arriving on time!
My recent offer was from BT.
I have an emailed offer from them.
I am going to reply saying I have found other cheaper deals, tell them what they are, and see if they respond.
It's a good puzzle today.
Can't see anything very controversial!!
I am fond of sprouts!

Malone, I think you are missing the point of the "Bolton" controversy.
It is not so much whether a large is a city, or vice -versa. but the fact that Bolton itself was refused application to become a city!
Hence invalidating the clue!

Hello, Malone!
A good post from you, as ever!
Elle has emailed The Times about Bolton/city.
I am looking forward to hearing what the crossword editor has to say about it!

Sorry for typo...missed out a word - it should have read "large town"!

Elle, I don't think for one minute that I missing the point! I think many, many solvers would not know about Bolton's application to become a city. The denial of the application doesn't alter the facts. Is Bolton a large town? if so, it fits the definition given in many, well-respected dictionaries. Surely that is all that is needed for fair clues?

In a word...no!
Of course it alters the facts!
Bolton was specifically refused to be allowed to become a city!
Therefore the clue isn't viable.

But I think we should leave this alone now.
Otherwise we seem to be in danger of WWIII breaking out!
And Norah will be on our tails!

Elle, we'll have to agree to disagree - unless, of course, Bolton has stopped being a 'large town'?!

Hi, Rusty!
I am sure that you will be able to sweet talk BT into offering you a far more competitive deal!
Is it that basically you prefer to deal with BT rather than any other provider?
My cards are now posted!
A brisk walk to the post box to release tension!
The collection is at 5.30 so they will be well on their way soon.
I have sent the latest competitive cost of sprouts to Ros, as she is experiencing difficulty in buying inexpensive ones.
That last lot from Aldi are in our sprout soup - delicious!



Hello, Ros!
Yes!
Husband: "Er.....what are you doing?"
Me: "Counting sprouts"......
Husband: "Why?"
I'm not sure which of us he thinks is the crazier ...me ..or you!