8a. a learner next to where he should be is relaxed. 8 letters.
5d. clown having brandy and water in france. 7 letters.
23a. dried hay can be turned into coloured thatch. 4 and 4.
we are still adjusting to the compiler but all help is appreciated thanks in advance
thank you so much jumbuck. new to this crossword as of a about a week ago and still getting use to it. been a god send being stranded at home cos of snow.