Crossword Help Forum
Forum Rules

Thanks drxx, that's another possibility. My thought was CIRCLE, but I don't really like either of these!

This is the first EV I have managed to look at for three weeks and I am finding it hard going. ( New Year's resolution could well be to give up on EV! ). Strong hints/pointers would be very much appreciated for 26 a ( ancestor's grub - 4 ), 36 a ( Bachelor's killed in fire. Do nothing - 4 ), 40 a ( More sound from power tool when bit of dust removed - 5 ), 8d ( Saw unscrupulous fellow switched outside croquet ball - 7 ) and 24d ( Stratum in Croatia containing old bit of ironware by detailed area - 7 ). I am still struggling to square the circle with 25a and 12d. Also, in the final grid am I right to assume that the amended entries are names both fictional and real rather than breeds?

36a Abbreviation for B(achelor) removed (Killed) from a word meaning large, destructive fire will give you a word meaning 'Do nothing'.

Have just revisited this and with the help of previous posts have managed to finish it. A big "Thank you!" to all who have contributed to this thread,

I've already asked (post 7) but can someone please put me out of my misery! Does anyone have an explainable clue answer to the thematic 7 across? Thanks

Micky, I had thought pally (p ally), but aren't at all convinced.

Sweet is in Chambers as amiable and the theme. But I can't really parse.

You are right. Thank you very much!
WE = 'people generally' inside SET = 'company'

Thanks Styleyd, I can stop pulling my hair out now! :-)

I've finished the puzzle, but am stumped on the original answer to 13a. Any hint please?

Fashion designer's collected new bed.