I don't actually do this crossword so haven't personally been upset by the uncertainties that Kate's use of words with alternative spellings causes. But having noticed how many people are upset by it, I did have a look at last week's puzzle, and notice that she used wIstaria (alt spelling wisteria). With the letter combination she had: - I - T - R - A, there were enough viable alternatives (Victoria, Vittoria, listeria) to make it unnecessary to use the one she chose. This leads me to believe that rather than trying to avoid ambiguities where possible, she is deliberately introducing them.
I repeat....I don't do this crossword myself, although I contribute to questions on this site occasionally. I have however noticed the dissatisfaction with the state of affairs at the moment and if people would be prepared to give me details I'll collate the evidence and write to Kate Mepham and the crossword editor and anyone else we think suitable.
If you don't want to post here, you can send examples directly to me at
[email protected]. Could you head the post
Herculis....as I ruthlessly bin anything that I don't recognise.