Crossword Genius

Burned remains after emptying secret store (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stash

'store' is the definition.
(stash is a kind of store)

'burned remains after emptying secret' is the wordplay.
'burned remains' becomes 'ash'.
'after' says to put letters next to each other.
'emptying' suggests removing the centre.
'secret' with its middle taken out is 'st'.
'ash' put after 'st' is 'STASH'.

(Other definitions for stash that I've seen before include "Hide in a secret place" , "Secret store (colloq.)" , "Squirrel away" , "Stow; secret store" , "Treasure trove" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app