Fair enough, Trevor. But then should'nt the answer be "to fry". Suppose a simple clue in a non-cryptic crossword were "to be executed by means of a noose" I would expect the answer to be "hanged" not "hang".
Another quibble with this crossword. 22d says the answer is two words but Chambers (on which this is based) gives it as one. Maybe it's not important but why not just get it right?
On a happier note, if any of you have an iPad I can recommend the Chambers dictionary app.