CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

▶ Across 2. Try to deceive Frank or Cliff (5) 5. Watch sound that's unwelcome to a sheep (4)

7. Raced to end of turning and got on the blower (4)

8. In confusion thereat, the North will issue ultimatum (8)

9. Punningly evaded squibs, ends removed, but lost blood (8)

11. Part of the school one may be required to fill out (4)

12. Coping with a pen-pusher, he works for the lawyer (8,5)

15. Small chimney for fluffy stuff (4) 17. Goes ahead for the money that comes in (8)

19. In low-lying country can it be correct to startle one? (8)

21. Fifty percent hydrogen atom, fifty fluorine (4)

22. Joints, the last first, to send by sea (4) 23. Blemishes returned, this being insubstantial (5)

▶ Down

1. Supporter at ancient city in Virginia makes show of excellence (7)

2. It may annoy one to put in a listening device (3)

3. A French bed tipped up, up to that time (5)

4. Don't continue to employ boxer for standing in the grate (7)

5. Three-quarters of eleven taken at four (3)

6. Here's good food: shout approval! (5) 10. Face up to a redskin (5) 11. A self-adjustment that's not genuine (5) 13. An incentive is met up with difficulty (7)

14. Sifts such things as make one ponder (7)

16. It grows something with keystone after end of lintel (5)

18. Fame is endlessly confusing, but he's got something! (5)

20. Space provided by the family doctor with a heart (3)

21. In what manner will 10 greet one? (3)