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I have removed the text in posts 5 to 8 inclusive as I am informed that too much information was revealed.

Could I ask that all posters read the preamble by Malone in the first post and do not give away too much information, thank you.

I have a full grid with the necessary highlights - however I am confused by the presence of a triplet - is that correct?

Hi Gitto, there is one triplet which seems to me only to create symmetry, rather than being thematic

Hi DSC, that is what I have.

Stumbled on the theme quite quickly and found the endgame to be straightforward.
A couple of clues have defeated me but it was a fun workout nevertheless.
Thanks to KevGar.

Right up our street eh, DSC?!
Although I did have to Google the shortest highlightee!
Thanks KevGar!

Indeed, lewap, though I had never come across this nomenclature before

Despite my initial concerns I really enjoyed this puzzle. Many thanks KevGar.
I, too, struggled with parsing a few clues, and even when 'reverse engineered' the word play eludes me. I am happy, however, that I have a completed and correct grid and as always have been educated by a Listener.

Is there a superfluous triplet or have I missed something? I assume we add a thematic element in the central square which leaves an anomaly. Also we have four of the other 5 in the grid but not the 4 legged one...or have I missed something there too. Hope that's not too much of a giveaway

The "superfluous" triplet seems to be there only for purposes of symmetry. I found its lack of thematic connection made it the hardest to figure out. As for the missing member, I assume that he's missing so that it's clear which quintet we have to highlight - or perhaps he's in the doghouse!