The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word MICKLE
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "A lot of old folk" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case a lot of old folk = mickle.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does MICKLE mean?
MICKLE noun- A great amount.
- (originally erroneous) A small amount.
- Great or important people as a class.
- Greatness, largeness, stature.
- (Very) great or large.
- To a great extent.
- Frequently, often.
- A great extent or large amount.