CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
For today’s solutions, text CLUE followed by the clue (eg: ‘CLUE 1 Down’) to 53307
Across
1 Forceful return by detectives keeps back old Russian ruler (7).
5 Gents maybe interrupting chap who’s stumped (7).
9 Enemy has steamer in moat (5).
10 Leaders adjust means test (9).
11 You’ve lost, so go over it again with friend (9).
12 Times set back for memory units (5).
13 Irritated, made an effort (5).
15 With suspicion call debt underhand (9).
18 Make act, though member is overdue (9).
19 The gist — excellent in return from old African kingdom (5).
21 First two in joint move back for organ (5).
23 Cause to move as temporary expedient (9).
25 Final provocation is having to endure return of warts (4,5).
26 In jail I lack scented bloom (5).
27 In our area potential dawns (7).
28 Gave up struggle to produce journalist (7).
Down
1 Shortage that’s handy around here in France (7).
2 Suffering the consequences of digesting new grains (9).
3 Slightly modify timber, with water initially injected (5).
4 Prophet of doom around ship and artist (9).
5 Fit-up one in a cartoon strip? (5).
6 Past one’s best, on keeping part of speech vulgar (9).
7 Transfer area of responsibility (5).
8 Extremely dirty, unpleasant series of rulers (7).
14 One reveals information, but misplaces record (9).
16 Withdrawal from holiday abroad... (9).
17 ...With words in the frame for doctored idle butts (9).
18 Blossom cast to old essayist (7).
20 Helping relieve stomach pain - formic, perhaps? (7).
22 More learned getting wires crossed (5).
23 Join with German leader in the water (5).
24 Defeat problem alone, claiming victory (5).
Solution to Sunday Independent Cryptic Crossword no 1,234 Across: 1 Implodes; 9 Egomania; 10 Anon; 11 Gold standard; 13 Period; 14 Relished; 15 Orbited; 16 Analogy; 20 Traitors; 22 Orchid; 23 Counterclaim; 25 Epic; 26 Regulate; 27 Dilatory.
Down: 2 Menswear; 3 Long division; 4 Dislodge; 5 Sensors; 6 No-ball; 7 Inca; 8 Candidly; 12 Displacement; 15 Outscore; 17 Neonatal; 18 Gainlier; 19 Psyched; 21 One-way; 24 Urge.
The Sunday Independent Cryptic Crossword Book, with 60 crosswords, is available for €8.50, incl. postage. Call 0860836868 or email glenbower46@gmail.com