Working through the Quick Cryptic crossword from The Times on 18 Oct 2017

YOU solve the puzzle (with one or two hints here and there...)

[@gordonglenn2089]

Only 18 likes in 18 months! Before the channel really caught on. A good place to go for a beginner to cryptic crosswords, step-by-step solutions, with encouragement to pause and solve each clue yourself along the way.

[@waterskym]

I liked this lots, so am thrilled to be just in time to claim the consolatory bronze medal.

[@rogerwprice]

I got exactly zero of the clues!

[@pearl1606]

Where does CK come in on the given letters to get 'slapstick'?

[@AdamFunnell]

Polished = Slick. Anagram of spat in the middle.

[@SalisburyUlysses]

(anag. of SPAT) inside (polished = SLICK) = SLAPSTICK