Independent Cryptic #1

2021-12-26

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Across

1a

One blooming opiate isn't going astray! (10)

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7a

Half-heartedly wed gal without IT experience (4)

9a

American Express brought about Delta's arrival (6)

10a

Shower expensive, but they say it's a beast! (8)

11a

Reporters covering hospital department awards (8)

13a

Flop in procreational period repelled legend (6)

14a

Fizzy Buds are ace accompaniment to a meal (5,5)

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16a

Large amount of dope found on head of mission (4)

17a

Sabbath singer making comeback as headliner (4)

19a

Hot to open new Foster's Special Reserve (10)

22a

Dick bringing Nina back sandwiches from Italy (6)

23a

Uni fellows to stop member of Police jamming (8)

25a

Very old crack found in strongbox by freak (8)

27a

A drop of really cold water? (6)

28a

Scoundrel pinching rear of our Queen? (4)

29a

I heed girls organising winter trip (6,4)

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Down

2d

I sort out guy awaiting Yuletide gift delivery? (7)

3d

Daughter born close to Christmas conceals wants (5)

4d

English nurses hosting foremost of Xmas spreads (7)

5d

A slice of roast topped with dash of table salt (3)

6d

Slightly dry introduction to Laplander in a story (1,6)

7d

I am one kind seen with right old lady in North Pole (6,3)

8d

Wise man bearing note and bit of frankincense rolls joints (7)

12d

Plonk with seconds upset men and son in post-roast states? (7)

15d

Greeted in a Covid-safer way, say, by shaking raised ski (3-6)

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18d

Airline trick raised Christmas hols each annum initially (7)

19d

Father Christmas ultimately keeping one object for pals (7)

20d

50% off tinsel brings in public with good advertising (7)

21d

I'm told Jesus was one cold boy clothed in radiant light (3-4)

24d

Brother, fine with flipping wind, has third helping of sprouts (5)

26d

Those heading to icy emporium to get gift for Noel? (3)

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