DOUBLE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CLUES Across

4. One who identifies and records blemishes? (7) 8. Astute Katherina marries dunderhead (6) 9. Composer backing the arts on American ship (7) 10. Always back about six to get renewed vigour (6) 11. In speech, indicated none attended mass meeting (6) 12. Make a chance decision to be a prolific draughtsman? (4,4) 18. Eliminate philatelic issue now on sale (5,3) 20. Not completely acting? (2,4) 21. He can’t lose! (6) 22. Cast a spell to prove eligibility for coven? (7) 23. A spirited performance? (6) 24. Astonish with alternating arrangement (7)

Down

1. A long step taken to be sitting side-saddle (7) 2. Unimportant test includes 4 (7) 3. 50 wives turn on a spin! (6) 5. Set sail to get another US teapot (3,2,3) 6. Beverage-maker has to get back holding a degree (3,3) 7. Lie, say, without difficulty (6) 13. Stole cab, but it proved to be a hindrance (8) 14. How the composer got a lot of money? (7) 15. He instigates race movements (7) 16. Remove MP, Auntie’s not got one, unfortunately (6) 17. On the receiving end, thanks to sovereign (6) 19. 1000 were sick, and got posted (6)

QUICK CLUES Across

4. Varied (7) 8. Stale (6) 9. Obscurity (7) 10. Bad-tempered (6) 11. Diversion (6) 12. Supplant (8) 18. Shed (8) 20. Tell (6) 21. Cake (6) 22. Quarrel (7) 23. Show (6) 24. Protection (7)

Down

1. Calamity (7) 2. Distress (7) 3. Scatter (6) 5. Cheeky (8) 6. Stimulate (6) 7. Exhibit (3,3) 13. Spicy (8) 14. Lull (7) 15. Deceive (7) 16. Foment (6) 17. Pair (6) 19. Paradise (6)