Crossword

CLUES No. 1113 ACROSS:

1. Lead Soprano takes powers to new level with special ability and expertise. (7)

5. Gain understanding from Mardi Gras parade. (5)

8. 20th century dance fad started out a bit discoloured. (5)

9. A glazed usually blue ceramic tile originally of Portugal and Spain. (7)

10. Transparent film. (7)

11. Siamese fighting fish. (5)

12. Breakfast food made from oats, nuts and dried fruit. (6)

14. Infected, gone off after short month in charge. (6)

17. Prepare, spruce up man due to play vital role in union. (5)

19. Diffusing warmth and friendliness. (7)

22. Where models tread with feline grace? (7)

23. Stingy hoarder of money and possessions. (5)

24. Early immature, wingless stage of insect. (5)

25. So lacking in interest as to cause mental weariness. (7)

DOWN:

1. City of NE Italy where Shakespeare’s shrew was tamed. (5)

2. Offensive to good taste, old boy is part of the act. (7)

3. Virulent African virus named after a river. (5)

4. Used jointly, held or experienced in common. (6)

5. Complain of seeing rum blended with other drinks. (7)

6. Representative who acts on behalf of other persons or organizations. (5)

7. Commonplace or dull, unimaginative. (7)

12. Mysteriously enchanting. (7)

13. Fast sensual Brazilian dance. (7)

15. Very hot spicy sauce. (7)

16. Mechanical seal in an internal combustion engine. (6)

18. Aquatic mammal with thick fur seen in Rotterdam. (5)

20. Widely known and esteemed. (5)

21. Deservedly receives. (5)