Cryptic Crosswords can be a lot easier than people imagine. They are word
games with each clue being a word-play. Look at the following: -

Flavouring as a weapon in pristine condition (9)
The answer is spearmint. The clues to the answer are:-
A weapon – spear
Pristine condition – mint
Put the two together to get – spearmint- which is a flavouring
This is only one type of cryptic clue, and once you learn the rules, instructions
and code words, they are great fun to unravel.
If you think this might interest you then why not think about joining our group?
There will be a Course of eight sessions running fortnightly on the first and
third Tuesday of each month, running in the afternoons from 2 to 4pm at
Heather’s home in Western Road, Lancing. Every week we teach you another
of the rules of Cryptic Crosswords, with lots of practical examples. It is also
cumulative, so each week we remind you of the previous rules and include
them in that week’s work. You will discover that it is actually very easy once
you know the rules.
After you have completed the full course, you have the opportunity of joining
the Advanced Group. This also runs on Tuesdays, at Heather’s home, but in
the mornings from 10 am to 12pm on the third Tuesday of each month.
So why not consider joining the next Beginners Cryptic Crossword Group?
Leave us your contact details and we will be in touch and give you more
information.
John Leaney, Heather Stone

Next Beginners Course Dates for 2026: 2-4 pm
Tuesday 20 st January 2026
Tuesday 3 th February 2026
Tuesday 17 th February 2026
Tuesday 3 th March 2026
Tuesday 17 th March 2026
Tuesday 7 th April 2026
Tuesday 21 st April 2026
Tuesday 5 th May 2026