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Grid almost filled. Thematic object identified but not constructed. Help please. How should I use the 1NW, 5NE etc from extra words?

The position of the extra word in the clue indicates which cell of the answer you need, and the the coordinates indicate the corner of that cell. That should correspond with the thematic object

Thank you. Now what?

Have you drawn the shape? Look for two clues in a sixteen-letter line outside it, and replace with the original creator (not BH). You will get 11 new words

No I have no idea what shape a speed dial is. Is Strowger relevant? Need heavier hints please.

I assumed that you had the correct nine-letter word from the extra letters in the down clues. It’s not a “speed dial”. Your 6th, 8th and 9th letters need changing. If you look that up in Wikipedia you will see the shape and its originator, and be able to match the points. Nothing to do with Strowger or telephony

It's not speed dial.
I'd love a steer on first across and down entries! Can't get started with entering.

Thank you so much. Got there now!

First across is north of Norway. The channel crops up quite often, two letters. Deep as in voice, opening as in a tear. First down, the stack could be made of hay. Given along with bouquets

lumen, first across is 7,3 name of an ocean. The 2-letter channel is popular with setters