CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. Flags other things can be

measured by (9) 8. Top performer – one in

suit (3) 9. Group 2 in school are not

the best (6-5) 11. A fault tired me out (7) 12. Die out after the doctor

removed the moisture (5) 13. Do rather more than tan (6) 15. It is given in speech (6) 17. A step made by the baker,

perhaps (5) 18. Boring Edward with acknowledgements of debt (7) 20. Yet intact, apparently (11) 22. See idiot in compassion (3) 23. Passing by vote, alternative

solution? (9)

DOWN

2. It’s a bit of a bind when the

scores are level (3) 3. He has a consuming

interest (5) 4. Quote again – yes, quote

from memory (6) 5. Don’t desert – prepare for

attack (7) 6. Does chairman’s last word

disfranchise him? (7,4) 7. The man, his abode, and

what he wears on top (9) 10. The usual meaning of sound

practical approach (6,5) 11. Said paper will vanish (9) 14. 100 must have been slimming – the result of washing! (7) 16. Standing in protest at usual

time (6) 19. Dunderhead is in good

health. He’ll live! (5) 21. Some missing the

wickedness! (3)