Daily Mail Prize Crossword 13,880 Wednesday January 5th 2011

[parkie]

Yes I know it's late but I can't sleep!!! Last answer required for today's DM and hope someone can help before I go nuts.
25d Officer keeps providing free ride. L _ f_. The only answer I can come up with is LIFT but cannot see the connection with the clue. Happy New Year.

[mike11111]

LT (lieutenant) with IF (providing) inside.

[cupid04]

Lift

[parkie]

Thankyou both for the answer and the explanation Mike11111.