CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7678

ACROSS

1. What the alarm clock gives? (6,7). 8. It’s a flower, daddy! (5). 9. Ran round the lip and missed one’s footing (7). 10. Standing to see Peter hurtle round the bend (6). 11. On land or sea could be hard to get into (6). 12. After a couple of days, returned the snake (5). 14. A sister is sent off to get a plant (5). 18. States the East is opposed to it (6). 20. Anyhow, are back numbers, you argue (6). 23. Bag the rascal in the down pour (7). 24. He’ll cut in (5). 25. A brush salesman? (5,8).

DOWN

1. Narrows down to the odd repast (6). 2. Hair piled high, dispose of what’s left (3,2). 3. First gear! (7). 4. Hard to cut up and to get clean (4). 5. Attacks in bars (5). 6. Scamp, over-active. will get better (7). 7. Contrivance you wander about and irritate people with? (6). 13. Does she line up all the costumes? (7). 15. The coat the lady will take on account (7). 16. Carrying a hundred passengers could be described as ridculous (6). 17. Dress and go round (6). 19. Walk like a seal (5). 21. She’s got Ian so upset (5). 22. Used to be, ourselves, soldiers (4).