Chester Tester

[FlyingBanana]

9a. h - l -
Surfacing material that pal assessed.
I get asphalt out of the clue but theres only 4 letters?!

also 21a . - l - n -
Holding basic gangplank.

Anyone help?

[tyrepill]

21a Gland ?..a device for preventing leakage (holding)

[Catron]

This looks quite a good crossword for cruciverbalists and is worth having a crack at. Those that are interested can find it here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/3752078/Overleigh-Ro undabout-July-2008-Issue-12

I think the two answers you are looking for here FlyingBanana are Halt and Cling - they both have ASP taken out of the words Asphalt and Clasping - though I have to confess I do not, at least yet, know why.

[FlyingBanana]

Thanks Catron. There did seem to be a 'missing snake' thing going on.
Can you recommend a book to teach me how to do these difficult crosswords? I've not come across one like this before.

[Catron]

The hint that the snakes had to be taken away from some clues was in the clue to 24 down. I have not been able to see a hint how to solve the clues generally but it might be evident to those who are more clever than I.

I am sorry but I cannot recommend a book to help you with crosswords such as these - but could I suggest you ask the question to others within the main Q&P category - it will be seen by more people that way. You might like to copy my link to this particular crossword so others know the type of crossword you are enquiring about.

Finally, have you completed it now or can I help with any further clues? Best wishes, Catron.

[FlyingBanana]

Catron - Truly many thanks. I've finished it now but could not have done so without you and Slayer!