I forgot to note my time.
Mephisto 3398 – In the middle of the middle
For a John Grimshaw, this puzzle was not too bad; only of medium difficulty, with some easier starter clues. But this is still Mephisto, and it’s highly like that most solvers have not heard of the long words around the edge.
Note: This week’s Mephisto by Paul McKenna is very easy, so if you’ve been wanting to try one, now is your chance.
Sunday Times Cryptic by David McLean — fabulous
I liked this a lot. Seven (!) anagrams, certainly not complaining about that, and I learned a new phrase, a new word, and a new English town.
Quick Cryptic no 3123 by City
A second puzzle from City, slightly more challenging than their debut offering.
Times Cryptic Jumbo 1754 (04 October 2025)
A pleasant solve apart from two or three obscurities
Times Cryptic 29358 – Sat, 11 October 2025. Defied to define the limits.
One clue has a device I didn’t quite understand. Otherwise, business as usual.
Times Championship Final 2025
Time: slower than Magoo, of course, but very crucially just a few seconds faster than David Howell Well I can definitely tell you that I am not going to podium in any speed blogging championships … Read more “Times Championship Final 2025”
Times Cryptic 29363 – rubies, carbuncles, and sapphires
A pan-Atlantic offering to please (or frustrate) us all.
Times Quick Cryptic No 3122 by Shay
A neat Quick Crossword from Shay with a couple of chewy bits, but some great surfaces
Fortnightly Weekend Quick Cryptic. This time it is Phil’s turn to provide the extra weekend entertainment. You can find the crossword here.
29362 ….and breathe.
13.10, though I thought it was going to be quicker. After the chastening challenge of the first Competition grid yesterday this felt like a generous helping of light relief, and in the early stages … Read more “29362 ….and breathe.”