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My thoughts are that this is partly why there are two threads on The Listener each week.

One is for more general commentary on how much one enjoyed it (or not) and for other general comments and everyone should be allowed to say whatever they want (within reason) and the other thread is for hints where there is a whole bunch of super-helpful and friendly people willing to give hints to anyone that asks whatever level they may be.

That said, having seen these comments, perhaps I’ll hold off from giving my view going forward as wouldn’t want to put anyone off.

Candledave, I agree with much of what you say - and really hope that you will continue to give your views! As someone who still struggles with some Listeners, it doesn't bother me at all that many other solvers fare far, far better.

PS And if i needed pointers or hints, my first port of call would be the '...May Contain Answers' thread. As well as helping me, that one confirms that other solvers are also looking for assistance.

I had hoped to get a hint on the two three letter words I cant solve at 1 and 40. I'm assuming the answer to 1 is RAY converting to AYR, but I can't parse it. I can't get anywhere with the clue to 40 unless it leads to the French town of EZE. Otherwise the most likely answer is EYE, but why? Any hints gratefully received

Hi Stockie,

40a - One of the first two occupants of 28a - Also the first three letters of a 4 letter word defining 24 and 26 but it could also be 2, 4, 6 etc.

1a - Is an anglicised version of a "note" and can also mean 'a look or glance' as in "image passing by"

I parsed 1A slightly differently. The revealing image being an X-RAY and “passing by” meaning removing the X which can be “by” as in multiplication

That's excellent CandleDave, makes much more sense - I think I'll give up giving tips on parsing 😢

Just a thought - I hope the hints and parsing explanations on this thread don't spoil any solver's fun...

Fair point Malone.

I took the view that one can be a bit more relaxed a week or so after the crossword came out but probably still makes sense to use the Hints thread instead.

Thanks, Candledave - and I think you're absolutely right about being more relaxed on slightly older puzzles - I hadn't even noticed that this was last week's!

I had it same as you candledave. Obviously we're right then. : )