Well, I've eventually finished, though with several unparsed (and possibly wrong), and some new words for me - 24a, for example. Guessing the Nina was essential!
Neville, your D is correct. I had to use a word search to find this uncommon word, but there is only one word that fits the crossers. Still haven't parsed it though.
I've done easier genius puzzles. And I didn't complete this. Will be interested in the parsing of some clues. Ho hum. Taking dogs out after heat of the day. This was a good excuse to stay in.
Just looked at the NINA. Reminds me of a time when some kids in Heaton kicked the ball into the backyard of our neighbours, two formidable old ladies. The child sent over the wall to retrieve it didn't immediately return so a sheepish delegation was nominated to knock on the front door using the same statement but with "friend" substituted for ball.
I assumed the bank holiday jumbo crossword was this week's prize, but I now realise there must be another crossword somewhere. I can't do the Jumbo as I don't understand the instructions. Do you omit the letter pairs from the clues or the answers. I don't really care as I can't be bothered to try any more. I might see if I can find the crossword this thread is referring to or I might just give it a rest this week.
Half time at the football. I started at 6.30am. I had nearly 3 hours on a train and I'm still not done. I fear DNF but I'm going to press on on the return. Is Eliot well known? I'm struggling.