Crossword Genius

One in pursuit of spirit to follow beer, perhaps (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

chaser

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

'one in pursuit of spirit' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'follow beer perhaps' is the wordplay.
'follow' becomes 'chase' (synonyms).
'beer perhaps' becomes 'r' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'chase'+'r'='CHASER'

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for chaser that I've seen before include "Beer after spirits e.g." , "Follow-up drink" , "Beer after whisky, say (or vice versa)" , "One hunting" , "engraver" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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