Way single chap keeps so chipper? (10)

I believe the answer is:

stonemason

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'so chipper?' is the definition.
'stonemason' can be an answer for 'chipper?' (I've seen this before). I am not sure about the 'so' bit.

'way single chap' is the wordplay.
'way' becomes 'st' (abbreviation for street).
'single' becomes 'one' (a single thing - only one).
'chap' becomes 'mason' ().
'st'+'one'+'mason'='STONEMASON'

'keeps' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stonemason that I've seen before include "Craftsperson" , "Architectural carver" , "chipper?" , "Man's on toes (anag) - craftsman" , "Monumental worker" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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