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Hi. This is my first post here and this is my first go at cryptic crosswords and I’ve spent all week at it. 😳
The observer is out today and before I walk to the shop for 4086, is there any chance someone could give me a hint to the four I capsule get from 4085?

6a
15a
16a
15d

I will get better at this. I don’t think I could get worse.

Hi Bagpeel and welcome!

Hints…
6a The answer to 4 is the definition. The remainder implies the solution is a palindrome.
15a A cryptic definition. The runners being of the vegetable variety.
16a Anagram. “Fancy” is the indicator.
15d Also an anagram. Here “badly” is the indicator.

Full explanations of all the solutions are given here, as they are each Sunday one week after publication…
https://www.fifteensquared.net/2025/02/09/everyman-4085-2-february/

Hope that helps. Keep going!

Thank you Joni, that’s really helpful.

Sorry Jono. Seems my crossword skills are not the only thing I need to improve. My typing also needs work.

No worries, glad I could help.

To get within 4 on your first go is really impressive bagpeel. I remember when I started out being pleased if I _got_ 4 answers before giving up!

Have you looked at the quick cryptics on the guardian and fifteen squared? Perhaps below your level already though!