I don't think the clues are any more difficult, but there is the added problem of fitting answers into correct grids, which means that the majority of these answers need to be found initially without the assistance of other letters in the patterns.
Well done indeed, Aquagility! I've never tried this one - as I don't really do GK crosswords. Perhaps I should try, as it's beginning to look as if the only people who do send it in (correctly) are members of this site. Obviously much better odds than the Telegraph.
Merched - are you going to win next month, or am I going to enjoy Beginner's Luck ?
Another really good crossword. Thanks for letting us know it was out, merched - appreciate it.
As taize says, there is the small error on the X clues, the second of which should be of nine letters and not eight - but apart from that, great enjoyment for all who attempt/complete it.
Just to say congrats Aquagility ...we seem to be on a roll.. ..I got my Whitakers Almanak this week from Novembers....lovely useful reference book ....race you for the Atlas !
Have a lovely Christmas .... and good luck everyone xxxx