CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

8 Contemplate having time to get in to intervene (8)

9 Are a random, confused collection of old clothes in a sack? (3-3)

10 Was he mature enough to handle things? (6)

11 One day Etta worked out how to set off an explosion (8)

12 Was in the stage area in fashionable clothes (4)

13 Reports from all directions for a senior academic, or a broadcaster (10)

15 Used an alcoholic solution to show the inner nature of something (7)

17 A graduate lies about a feeling of discomfort (7)

20 Finish off, and one is no longer with us (3,2,3,2)

22 Had little time to inquire about what work was still to be done (4)

24 In the past, had too many giving one the eye (4-4)

26 Make undue claims on one who’s taken for granted (6)

27 A top boxer had taken in that he was defeated (6)

28 Spoke a length about how to set one free (8)

DOWN

1 Was quite composed when in a seated position (6)

2 Girls correspond with others who are not on the same page (8)

3 Did a head boy, etc, learn about a place of worship (10)

4 Leave one in the lurch by acting to betray one’s trust (3,4)

5 Good runner, at one time, showed determination (4)

6 Things to be done in a firm may finish up in an Aga (6)

7 They can be fast asleep, but they work closely together (8)

14 A cause can be quite rational (10)

16 New squad turned out with little hesitation, but went on to waste resources (8)

18 Is a painter on track to show creativity? (8)

19 At short notice, old sailors engaged a little boy who worked on decking (7)

21 A long rest can end up with sudden attacks (6)

23 Just the right time for one who can count (6)

25 Opening up some modern inventions (4)