PREVIOUS SOLUTION

Across: 1 Second rate; 7 Peron; 8 Descent; 10 Improved; 11 Star; 13 Grooms; 15 Offend; 17 Item; 18 Forehand; 21 Evacuee; 22 Avail; 23 Methuselah.

Down: 1 Strap; 2 Consomme; 3 Nodded; 4 Rash; 5 Theatre; 6 Springtime; 9 Taradiddle; 12 After all; 14 Operate; 16 Covers; 19 Awash; 20 Ruth.