Crossword Genius

A firm kiss for the helmsman (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cox

'the helmsman' is the definition.
(cox is a kind of helmsman)

'a firm kiss' is the wordplay.
'a firm' becomes 'co' (a firm is a company).
'kiss' becomes 'x' (X can represent a kiss).
'co'+'x'='COX'

'for' is the link.

(Other definitions for cox that I've seen before include "Steersman" , "Steerer of oarsmen in rowing boat" , "Passenger vehicle" , "Helmsman" , "He's in charge of a racing boat and its rowers" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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