Some always gathered about noon (3)

I believe the answer is:

any

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'some' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'always gathered about noon' is the wordplay.
'always' becomes 'ay'.
'gathered' indicates putting letters inside.
'about noon' becomes 'n' (I am not sure about the 'about' bit.).
'ay' placed around 'n' is 'ANY'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for any that I've seen before include "Several" , "One or some, whichever you choose" , "One, some, every or all without specification" , "One, no matter which" , "'Whatever'" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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