crossword problem

[quizbuff]

can anyone give any help as to the seasonal link clues in the herald prize christmas crossword

[puzzlemaniac]

hi quizbuff,

like you I am struggling with the seasonal link clues.
happy to share answers on the cryptics, and hopefully help us both crack the link.

so far I have
across - 11, 12, 15, 16, 20, 23, 26, 31, 37, 48, 50, 52
down - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 17, 21, 22, 24, 33, 36, 38, 44

if those can help you and you can supply some of my blanks, let me know which ones you need

cheers

[shorthorn]

I take it that like me neither of you have managed to find the link.
It appears to be a quotation with names in it as far as I can see.

[AMOR66]

Hi I am also struggling with this one. I do have 10a 18a 34a 53a 28d (I think ) if that helps you. Reconnoitre, Melrose, Lichens, Startles, Moor. Please could I have 12a ,and 16a

[puzzlemaniac]

Amor,

believe 12a to be axis (I have 4d as snaffle and 9d as tivoli, so the a-i- fits with anagram of a six)
and 16a Afoot (sherlock holmes, the game's afoot

[AMOR66]

Thanks for that, it should be a big help. If i get anywhere with the linked clues I will let you know.

[puzzlemaniac]

hi shorthorn,

for 1a I have T-E / -I-S- Might be 'The first' but no idea about any others, names or otherwise.

[puzzlemaniac]

AMOR66,

the seasonal link is the word NOEL, and then people whose names start with Noel or anagrams of Neol - Leon, Leno.

Your Melrose appears to be incorrect, there is also Denholm, which then works with 6d, 8d, 14d and 19d.

look for my other post and other ABers have provided the various answers.

cheers and good luck