Crosswords: questions and Band 8 answers

Yes, I do, though I don't get round to it every day. I usually tackle a quick crossword on my morning commute to unwind. It's a great way to pass the time on the train, especially when I want a break from checking work emails.

Occasionally, yes. My grandad used to buy a weekend newspaper, and he'd always let me fill in the simpler clues at the kitchen table. I wasn't particularly brilliant at them back then, but it was a lovely way to pick up new vocabulary.

I definitely lean towards pen and paper. There's something quite satisfying about physically scribbling letters into the grid. I find looking at a mobile phone screen a bit tiring after a long shift at work, so paper feels much more relaxing.

It depends on the style, to be honest. Standard word puzzles or general knowledge grids are fairly straightforward, but anything more complex leaves me scratching my head. If a clue relies on obscure trivia, I usually get completely stuck.

I'd love to give them a go, but they seem pretty intimidating right now. A friend of mine solves them over breakfast, and the clever wordplay just boggles my mind. If I ever find some spare time, I might buy a beginner's guide.