January 29, 2026 – Big Dave's Crossword Blog

Toughie 3627

Toughie No 3627 by Django
Hints and tips by ALP

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BD Rating – Toughie difficulty * Enjoyment ****

I always enjoy a Django: fun definitions and smart wordplay. Very gentle from him today, kicking off with a straight-in Spooner that rather set the tone. No bad thing – I’ve long suspected that setting a gentle but entertaining puzzle is even harder than setting a tough one. Over to you.

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DT 31149

Daily Telegraph Cryptic No 31149

Hints and Tips by Senf

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BD Rating – Difficulty ***/**** – Enjoyment ****/*****

A very good Thursday morning from Wincanton where we escaped the wrath of Storm Chandra, but only just, Yeovil about 15 miles to the SW, and beyond, did not escape.

For me, etc© (I have to say that for Terence), the Master of Brevity has given us an enjoyable puzzle which caused some pauses for thought for solving and parsing. The usual one word clues and answers in the Quickie, and an appearance of the Queen but not the sweetheart.  I hope you have your Crimson Tomes at hand!

Remember that Reading the Hints before commenting can be beneficial!

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