The source of the BANG can be observed in a square block of cells. A number of clues contain two definitions to words differing by one letter and wordplay to the common letters: for example, Moggy around tin defines CAT and CAN, and gives wordplay for CA. Solvers must choose the letter found in the source as the entry, replacing the letter in the actual source block with the other one indicated in the clue. There are apparent alternatives, but only one way of matching all such replacements at once. The letters of the source will then display the consequence of the BANG, which solvers must colour accordingly. Chambers Dictionary is recommended; 10d is in the Oxford Dictionary of English.
ACROSS
1 Worshipping old deity? I charm it deviously (8)
8 Rapid to shorten expression of impatience (4)
12 One’s bent back, in possession of rubber bones (5)
13 Provision of letter? Not first letter, the rest (4)
14 Run, and so on, before twisting muscle (7)
16 Violinist’s accessory otherwise backed by fashionable singer (5)
17 Tests of public opinion – one’s backed fixed forms (5)
18 Engineering also providing restriction for lake in country (7)
20 Indian chauffeur has little reserve? A touch (5)
22 Elizabeth’s about to agitate for Shakespeare (6)
24 RC – but never again? (5)
25 Choruses snort crudely with appearance of four stars (13, 2 words)
27 Mouldings, notice, absent from academy getting rebuilt (5)
29 ‘Nice summer in the main,’ reflected ancient ruler (6)
31 Not initially caught poking breast? Colour slightly, as before (5)
34 Kiwi crook in court row (7)
35 Resin? It’s connected with artist girl (5)
37 French spring, note, one that is recalled from essayist’s work? (5)
38 Wind, sick inside? That’s stale beer (7, 2 words)
40 Omen that’s bad, containing little good (4)
41 Marine plants get on, surrounding lake and separate area (5)
42 TV allowed to reflect web (4)
43 Twirled twill collections, timeless? They’re called ‘way out’ (8)
DOWN
1 The writer’s written about English lake, historically peaceful (4)
2 Welshman died, wrapped in flag (5)
3 Support to corporations producing children’s toys (9)
4 Routine uphill walk cut short (3)
5 Old Greek poet’s article on word usage (6)
6 Restrained account turned up Queen’s stimulant (6)
7 Eye movement enclosed within limit (8)
8 McLeod mostly transcribed golden pipe music (7, two words)
9 Thinking to abandon millions on drugs? (5)
10 Ancient affliction receiving smooth show of affection, as before (9)
11 Skilful performers run from contests (4)
15 Bending back, come round again, striving to express ultimate in flexibility (9)
19 Least clear name for ward? Treatments taking minimum of time (9)
21 Seabird seizes no end of damp weed (9)
23 Emperor seizing symbol of victory, elevating the divine presence (8)
26 Wagon expertise used aboard brown Mediterranean vessel (7)
28 Former actor also engaging in encouraging cry (6)
29 Poisonous material that’s not pro-Arab? (6)
30 ‘Girl not constant in vitality’ – US young offenders’ institution (5)
32 No longer reckoning some addict altered powdery substance (4)
33 Acknowledge old room in Calais, brewing ales (5)
36 Cuts? Report half of European country revolting (4)
39 Old river fish swimming up (3)
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