DM Weekend magazine Codeword puzzle

[Ann]

This is driving us mad - has anyone got the first word please, V is the letter given, its the second letter in a 6 letter word where the 3rd and 6th letters are the same. We thought the word could be AVERSE or AVENUE but when fitting the letters in other words the A and E follow each other in several other words, sometimes at the beginning, sometimes at the end, so clearly not right! Confused yet? Sorry - has anyone done this codeword today, if so PLEASE help us just get the first word to start us off. We do this puzzle every week - no probs, but this week has us stumped!

[mallyh]

avenge?

[shaneystar2]

Avenge ?

[squarebear]

svelte?

[Ann]

Thanks both - tried that too, but using any of the answers suggested it still means two letters AE next to each other in other words, one word at the beginning A E - - - (can only think of AESOP fables or another word at the end - E - E - - A E where the first and sixth letters are the same. Totally puzzled. Could ring up or text but don't want to pay a £ for 4 more letters, they may not even be in this word!

[Ann]

Ah square bear "By jove you've got it", I'm sure ....... just going to try it. Thanks a milllion if you are correct. :)

[shaneystar2]

Aerate?
Aerobe?

[squarebear]

My pleasure. Hope it fits.

No point in paying for telephone hotlines when you have the answerbank for free!

[squarebear]

Shaney, the 3rd and 6th letters have to be the same.

[shaneystar2]

Oh yes I see now ....I was getting confused which is nothing new !
Think I ought to turn in :)

[Ann]

Done it!! Square Bear go to the top of the class ! I will give you "Best Answer" Thanks a lot - can sleep soundly now :) It was a really difficult one this week.

[squarebear]

Always glad to help. Do call again :-)