Guardian 27644

This was a tedious matter of removing lots of letters from lots of names. They are all setters for the Guardian, including Tom Johnson, who sets as Maskarade. I've never heard of John Tomson, but his name is an anagram of the setter's. I've never heard of Brian Close either. Etc.

I thought 1d might be MOORING - low + ring (gear) - hence the mess.

This has now been blogged by Teacow. (No time is given, but I didn't look until I'd put this up.) So I've learnt that the football commentator in 24a is a different anagram: JOHN MOTSON.

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Garry Gillard | New: 19 October, 2018 | Now: 19 October, 2018