Puzzle Notes

Dear cryptic lovers,

We've got a transatlantic treat for you today: a puzzle from superstar British setter (no, not a dog or a volleyball player; that's what they call constructors over there) Ali Gascoigne. Besides his UK-style puzzles in venues like the Guardian, Ali has published both cryptics and vanilla puzzles here in 'Murica in the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal.

Says Ali: 'Hi from London. It's always a pleasure to have a cryptic published across the pond. Many thanks to Stella and the team for having me and for keeping me in check.

I hope you enjoy the puzzle. If you want to say hi and/or know when any of my other crosswords are published, you can find me on Twitter here.'

Ever notice how every British actor can nail a perfect American accent? We think you'll find the same is true of Ali. Enjoy!

Be well,
The AVCX Cryptic team