CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Slender as the leading lady who comes into vision (6) 8. Make a surgical incision and clean it out (5) 9. Make a link and hit the target (7) 11. Man with a will to try gets to a rocky height (8) 12. It is at the centre where compassion is concerned (5) 15. One may pinch a feeling of elation (4) 16. It may be an awkward situation, so mend it (3) 17. Look green at a diplomat who has lost nothing (4) 19. Between man and dog, the line – a short line he’s twisted (5) 21. Sort of rose for the flag (8) 24. Gave to the touch, as did eel after end of May (7) 25. Brush out the pews around the end of the nave (5) 26. Did wrong in Leghorn, but it’s not seen (6)

DOWN 2. Is not bound to take solo trip to the East (5) 3. How to get electricity out of green tea (8) 4. Diplomacy must be used in covert activity (4) 5. Abuse one and wipe it clean, debts being paid (5) 6. The nautical speed of the sheepshank (4) 7. Teddy for one is to be with child (4) 10. The land it found in great fear at beginning of year (9) 12. Will not get rid of the cargo space (4) 13. Took great delight in the Dell, always from South to North (8) 14. My article isn’t finished, it being the stuff of legend (4) 18. Modify suitable advertisement to begin with (5) 20. Is up to woman to sift it (5) 21. Sliding frame gets worn with decoration (4) 22. Reduced air fare to the summit (4) 23. Distribute type of good-looking girl or boy (4)