CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

1. Spotting their hobby? They may be doing just that! (12) 8. Unusual icon’s found in Ireland that’s coated in enamel (7) 9. Spent hours in making up feed (7) 11. Two lips split and pelvis hit with piece (6-4) 12. Sailor carries small ruler in Russia (4) 14. Men on board dance in uncle’s place (8) 16. Mariner who loves olive oil, they say (6) 17. Look west for source of wind and rain? (3) 19. Mushroom discovered in Forth river (6) 21. Everybody follows PM separately in London street (4,4) 24. Mediterranean island exports a grain (4) 25. Boring man in the street (10) 27. Notice party admits pressure to work faster (5,2) 28. Women are comforting man in period of conflict (7) 29. A party Molly arranged to include one didactic drama (8,4)

Down

1. Woodcutter spotted following deer (7) 2. Reacting quickly, writer’s backing person’s novel (10) 3. Abrasive wives conceal fury, upsetting gents (4,4) 4. Red wine ingredient almost turning brown (6) 5. Loot manor, by the sound of it (4) 6. Flawed series about university put out again (7) 7. Following cool river, maps out bends for big swimmer (12) 10. Stable coat somehow bothers ankle (5,7) 13. Security subsequently appears in local complex (10) 15. Old man’s soft drink (3) 18. e.g. canal, wide, combined a half of Tyne and Wear (8) 20. Outstanding carving finished up gripping story (7) 22. Cap this skill? It doesn’t really change (7) 23. Group in Philadelphia, source of enigmatic responses (6) 26. Almost perfect plan (4)