CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Nothing perceptible initially,

standing in shadow (10)

6 Meat plans rejected (4)

9 A step wasn't awkward in

elasticated trousers (10)

10 Test returns in regular order (4) 12 Steed struggling with back in

fact can't stand (6)

13 Turning out to be appropriate (8) 15 Nice unmarried woman? (12) 18 One's inclined to use admin in

building (12)

21 Prepares tomatoes perhaps,

and other items? (8) 22 Reportedly, gangs drift along (6) 24 I rip off image (4)

25 Constable would have had one

tidying up trash in pub (10) 26 Charming man, spy needing no

introduction (4)

27 Polish were fine men, though

not entirely (10)

DOWN

1 Performing team not anticipating referee's whistle? (6)

2 Poster designed quickly (6) 3 Going around island, day works

fine (12)

4 Catch not entirely lifted (4) 5 Where television aerial is

usually free (2,3,5)

7 Trace page, piece of

newspaper? (8)

8 Mat originally straightened,

dragged through the mud (8)

11 Great message about drone is

broadcast (12)

14 Due to leave centre, release

planned (10)

16 Wonderful hitting tennis ball

hard (8)

17 Reject change,

unhappy (4,4)

19 Unable to speak about

fashionable time (6)

20 Very popular ruby

stolen (3-3)

23 Testament maintained by

perfect opponent (4)