Crossword Genius

Fortify large space next to Sussex town (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

embattle

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'fortify' is the definition.
(I know this)

'large space next to sussex town' is the wordplay.
'large space' becomes 'em' (in typography, a space as wide as a letter 'm'. I am not sure about the 'large' bit.).
'next to' says to put letters next to each other.
'sussex town' becomes 'battle' (I've seen this before).
'em'+'battle'='EMBATTLE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for embattle that I've seen before include "Fortify" , "Prepare for conflict" , "Beset with attacks" , "add strength" , "Make ready to fight; belt mate (anagram)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Mail.
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