Unlock the secrets of the setters

Unlock the secrets of the setters

with the Guardian’s Paul

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On 24 March, top Guardian cryptic crossword setter Paul will be giving members of Guardian Extra a fascinating insight into the mysterious and wonderful minds of the the Guardian cryptic crossword setting team.

How does one become a cryptic crossword setter? How are cryptic crosswords written? What is a fair clue and what isn’t? What is the secret of crossword comedy?

Paul, aka John Halpern, will charm and delight you as you enter the mysterious, bamboozling, magical world of the cryptic crossword.

You will also get the chance to write a clue and have it published on the Extra site. Prepare to be amazed – words will never be the same again!

Learn the secrets of the setters and get answers to all your crossword queries at the event, which starts at 7pm at Manchester Metropolitan University on Thursday 24 March.

Tickets for the event cost £12, and there are still a few left. The ticket price includes a complimentary drink on arrival.

Membership of guardian.co.uk is free, and booking is online – just go to this page.  If you need to register, click on Register here or at the top of any page on guardian.co.uk.

John Halpern has recently joined the Toughie team as Dada.

Tilsit and I expect to be present, so we will see you there!