Independent

[Ripper]

Hi
15 across: ...exercises, sheltering in another one... (4) P _ N _
I assume pine?
18 across: ... more of the same family, top trimmed (4) - I - S
now I presume this a tree? (or a monkey?)
Well it is Christmas Eve and it's been a long day!
Any help would be great
Thanks in advance
P.S. A happy Christmas to everyone

[bibblebub]

assuming a tree theme...

15a PINE - exercises = P.E., sheltering IN => P in E

18a FIRS(t)

[Ripper]

Thank you bibblebub
Have a lovely Christmas