CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

For today’s solutions, text CLUE followed by the clue (eg: ‘CLUE 1 Down’) to 53307 ¤0.60 per sms received. SP Phonovation, PO Box 6, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Helpline 0818 217100

Across

1 Very short walk by dandy about to set out (8). 9 A trial for Spanish hero — one that’s critical (4,4). 10 Female character in Greece makes cheese (4). 11 Add strong lad working for monetary system (4,8). 13 Cuts back to firm plaster (6). 14 One gets in the way of ex-pupils caught in middle of story (8). 15 Food bachelors master, getting it back (7). 16 Channels for dupe that is singular (7). 20 Thus holding pet back and forward in a disjointed manner (8). 22 Female holds one against insect (6). 23 Bench I lifted, making allowance for parents (5,7). 25 No woman is in satisfactory condition (4). 26 Much obliged, out-manoeuvred, holding kerchief (5,3). 27 Shows 10 going out, surrounded by journalists (8).

Down

1 Show produced in a treetop (8). 3 Pathetic and ludicrous to rig acclaim for cooking (12). 4 Follow closely and smear formal wear (8). 5 Desire to die around one (7). 6 Soft organs put in time in small bottles (6). 7 A jewel brought up that’s huge (4). 8 Those into learning make boss rise in agitation (8). 12 Sound on the blower, denoting all I fancy (8,4). 15 Fundamental character of bias developing Dublin, for one (8). 17 To remove cover from menu, fluff endlessly about (8). 18 Measure in printing I concede for one living abroad (8). 19 Highly strung, displaying injury before judge (5-2). 21 Religious institutions exist in bottomless depths (6). 24 State one managed (4).