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Have filled grid with the sole exception of unclued 16d. I cannot find a fitting entry in the relevant section of Brewer's (18th edn), perhaps it's been superseded. I could enter a two word phrase which is commonly applied to small children(!). Has anyone who has completed this puzzle offer me a hint please?

Think it's one of the "2 furthers" mentioned in the preamble ...yes you are right! ... it's split 6, 5 and the 2nd word should be familiar!

The preamble mentions 11 unclued, but 16d would make a twelfth. Since 13a and 19a are the "characteristics" (I think) this makes it seem like 16d should have been clued.

Thanks both. From the preamble I originate 33d which is then linked with eight others which I have. The 'two further' I have as 13a and 19a. I think you're right, there's a clue missing. If so, it's becoming unfortunately common that there are errors in the clues and/or the grid. It shouldn't happen.

...and the absence of a clue for 16d would explain the predominance of unchs, which I thought was odd as it makes the puzzle much harder.

Out of interest, what did we think of Smurf?

For my money this was a 'curate's egg' of a puzzle with some excellent clues (4A and 40A) but with some clunky clues too (23A, 6D).

I would have preferred 13A and 19A to have been clued.

I do hope Smurf hits his/her straps as there is definitely some flair and flourish there.

KT17, I too thought the clues were a real mixed bag. I liked the two you mentioned, disliked the clunky ones and shook my head at a few others - 'Leaders of aggressive gang...' was awful.

Like you, I'd be happy to see another Smurf puzzle, but preferably a slightly slicker one!