Times 24903

[Timessolver]

26a Bird third from top - try feeding it (10). Answer must be SHEERWATER, but can't see why. Help please?

[tyrepill]

Sw(e)ater around Hear.....Shearwater

[Nical]

Shearwater - that has 'hear'(try)in it. 'Third from top' = 'sweater' with the 'a'(3rd letter) removed.

[factor-fiction]

I can't see how that answer works. What letters do you have?

[factor-fiction]

I'm sure the explanations are right but I don't like it.
Maybe I'm not cut out for some cryptics

[ladyalex]

Thank goodness you asked, factor 30.
I cannot see this one at all.

[Timessolver]

Thanks everyone. Spelling the bird with SHEAR, instead of SHEER, makes all the difference. See Nicol's explanation - that has made it clear to me.

[Timessolver]

Sorry, I meant Nical. And Tyrepill had seen the wordplay also . . .

[carmalee]

I can't see it either - why is third from top =sweater? really has me flummoxed!

[Nical]

Another word for 'top' is 'sweater'.

[kayakamina]

Sweater = top

Remove third (letter) i.e E = SWATER + HEAR (try ) = S HEAR WATER

[ladyalex]

Thanks I *think* I can see it now.
This one was far too cryptic for me.

[carmalee]

nical - that you for stating the absolute obvious! I'm so dim today

[vaughanw]

9 across: -r-g-t-n ?...

[boxtops]

vaughan, it's better to start a new thread if you are asking for a new clue/answer - what's the clue for this one please, we don't all see the paper?

[kayakamina]

Brighton

[vaughanw]

I've got it: Brighton

[boxtops]

I was going to say Brighton from the letters, but didn't have the clue!

[Lie-in King]

Hi vaughanw & welcome to AB! :-)

It's preferable to post the full clue, so that people without the puzzle can more readily help you. Also, starting your own thread should ensure your Q gets seen! :-))

That said -

9a Smart working in seaside location (8)

Bright-on

[Lie-in King]

Ok, too late...