CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

1. Empty threats beginning to bring bizarre result (7) 5. Servant lucky to retain name (6) 9. Teacher sent back fish dish (7) 10. Deer broke out, running round posh college (7) 11. Show-off likes his massaging, say, with oil at first (3) 12. Terrified, can we strike after work? (3-8) 13. Some dispute law withdrawing relief (3-2) 14. Such decency involving son could lead to prosperity (9) 16. Millions visit unstable colonies, making mark (9) 17. Eat lots or eat nothing around Spain (5) 19. Stop king and nobleman limiting current money facility (4,7) 22. Turned over natural fertiliser, releasing nitrogen (3) 23. Food flavouring is satisfying a requirement (7) 24. Wine business seals one entrance (7) 26. Experienced sailor travels back to claim promotion (3,3) 27. Report toughs viciously seizing Pole (7)

Down

1. What’s heard at closing time that carries weight? (7) 2. Ulsterman in Kop’s drunk? That’s not cricket (15) 3. Excessively short utensil (3) 4. Old official always turns up about end of June (5) 5. Oldest tree’s split around first of branches (9) 6. Absolute right governs our origins (5) 7. Joint beside old port in Kent makes punch (7,8) 8. Sort of dip that’s wet and very thin? (6) 12. Preservative consists of a condiment mostly (5) 14. River parasites do good, as does this pet in nick? (6,3)

15 589

15. Damaged frigate quits Georgia for complete overhaul (5) 16. Authority controlling middle of tube tunnel (6) 18. Vessel initially turns about rocks, taking in gallons (7) 20. Amateur had lapped European in front (5) 21. Take clothing off line to allow prices to fluctuate (5) 25. I left country and fled (3)