Crossword Genius

Start January by visiting and opening base (5-4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

first-foot

'start january by visiting' is the definition.
(to first-foot is to enter a home on New Year's Day)

'opening base' is the wordplay.
'opening' becomes 'first' (similar in meaning).
'base' becomes 'foot' (synonyms).
'first'+'foot'='FIRST-FOOT'

'and' acts as a link.

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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