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A phrase in the preamble is quite a big hint - the 3 thematic items are ''blocks of cells''.

The PDM has arrived and I am now in exactly the same position as quisling was @ post 3.

Are the initial entries in the 3 affected rows all entered in a similar manner, or are the initial and final row entries entered differently to the other?

Gitto, the three blocks of cells show rotational 180 symmetry, but not mirror symmetry. I e they are not all central to the row. That was the final obstacle I had to clear.

Thanks Quisling - I had just sussed that as I have the first 2 of the 3 thematic answers. I just can't find a word of the required length using the 3 letters I have starting it, that will lead me to the final thematic.

In the final grid, the first word on the last affected line is not in Chambers. It’s the plural form of a gerund formed from a four letter verb, if that helps.

All three thematic entries are in Bradford’s, which might help

You must be psychic Quisling as I have just realised that it is the dodgy plural that has been referred to. I also got into a bit of a pickle as Chambers word wizard doesn't give what would be 5d, but it is in both the BRB and Bradfords. The word wizard failing to recognise some words seems to be a quite common occurrence, even so, I do find it very useful. All done now.

Finally finished.

I haven’t embarked yet but if the theme is what I suspect then one of my previous lives may be relevant.