Quick crossword No 218

Solution blog with hints and tips available from Friday here -> https://reinterred.blogspot.com/2024/11/weekend-quick-cryptic-117-solution.html

Well I don’t often do the Quicks but I just happened to notice on the Setters page that this is the 100th puzzle you’ve posted - congratulations! A fun solve too, not too taxing and perfect for the coffee break. Thanks!

Very elegant crossword. Pretty much professional standard. Especially liked 5 down. I wondered about the use of ‘over’ in 18 across, but I think a case can just about be made out for it as a connecting device!

Ha ha! Looks like I'm not the only one to be drawn across to the dark side by your achievement, John. I don't normally do the Quicks but had to do this one to recognise what you've managed to do here. Many congratulations. (Nice to meet you in York, too!) Many thanks. PM

No major issues here. Just a few minor hold ups along the way. Thanks John