May 20, 2010 – Big Dave's Crossword Blog

Toughie 357

Toughie No 357 by MynoT

Hints and tips by Bufo

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BD Rating – Difficulty ***Enjoyment ***

It was down to earth after last week’s gentle introduction. I gave up on this after half-an-hour’s hard slog with 3 answers missing and several others not fully understood. I then filled the gaps with the aid of TEA and Chambers but was still left with 2 or 3 answers for which I need enlightenment. I am sure that someone will oblige. I found the top half more difficult than the bottom half.

The puzzle contains several clues that contain no wordplay. This means that you stand no chance if you don’t happen to be familiar with the answer. For instance I couldn’t remember the answer to 14 across and so I had no alternative to looking it up. I also didn’t like the fact that there are also several answers (or part answers) that appear only in Chambers and not in the COD or Collins.

I have taken note of last week’s comments about not revealing the answers in my hints.

Please leave a comment telling us what you thought. You can also add your assessment by selecting from one to five stars at the bottom of the post.

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DT 26241

Daily Telegraph Cryptic No 26241

A full review by Gnomethang

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BD Rating – Difficulty **Enjoyment **

Morning All!

Our usual Saturday setter has given us a bit of a mixed bag. There were a few very pleasant clues (2d and 22a for example) but some others I felt were slightly below par, or at least slightly well worn.

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DT 26245

Daily Telegraph Cryptic No 26245

Hints and tips by Big Dave

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BD Rating – Difficulty **Enjoyment ***

A very gentle puzzle that, I thought, shouldn’t cause any problems. If you know differently then let me know.

Please leave a comment telling us what you thought. You can also add your assessment by selecting from one to five stars at the bottom of the post.

Continue reading “DT 26245”