Spectator Christmas Puzzle

[Mampara]

I am not used to this type of crossword and need some advice on how to interpret the instructions in the preamble.
It states-
Each clue has two parts run together but never overlapping. Each clue contains a definition and a consecutive letter mixture of the two solutions.

An example of a clue is- 'Tycoon providing too much drink,liquor and sweet in front (7.7)
I have M?????? O??????

Is the 'consecutive letters mixture' the same in each clue?

Any pointers greatly received.

[AHearer]

I'm not sure I've completely understood your question. In this clue it happens that you can split it at the comma, and the first part contains a definition and letter mixture with an answer, as you say, beginning with M to go in the left-hand grid. The second part, simllarly, is a DLM and the solution does begin with O. I hope that's an answer to your question.

[Mampara]

Thank you AHearer.

I think the puzzle is a step too far at my stage and I'd be better off staying with the Times/Guardian level

[bathtub]

No, don't be put off. It's not as big a step as you think.

Using the example you've given, 'Tycoon' is the definition part of the left-hand solution. There's no wordplay as such - just the consecutive jumble of letters which in this case occurs in 'too much drink' (you're looking for a proper name).

Alternatively, try the anagrams in 'food and drink' as a way in. They're quite easy to solve, though you do have to determine which belongs to the left and which to the right hand grid.

This site may help in unscrambling some of them at least - enter the phrase without spaces between the words:

wordsmith.org/anagram/

I've only just started this one, and it's more complex than most regular Spectator puzzles, but so far not that difficult. It just takes patience.

If you can cope with Araucaria's more testing puzzles in the Guardian, you can cope with this. And don't forget you have virtually three weeks to do it in!

[Mampara]

Thanks so much bathtub.

I couldn't see the wood for the trees but am now off and running.

Cheers