Mephisto 2500

[Mikejas]

1 across (8) ?E??IS?? and 7 across (4) ???? Anyone got any ideas about these two unclued lights? Is it something to do with the fact that this is No 2500? And I have no idea what's being referred to regarding the three answers which have to be "entered unconventionally".

[Rapparee]

Look at your question's title!

[Mikejas]

Thanks Rapparee. I didn't even notice that the title was not Mephisto. Must have just caught sight of the capital M and assumed that it was just as usual.

[Rapparee]

Not sure what you mean by this reply. I was giving a hint about the unclued lights. Compare them to your question's title!

[kayakamina]

The number of the crossword 2500 are your starting numbers/letters for the down clues.
7d starts with 2

8d starts with 5

9d starts with 0

1a is the Usual name of the crossword.

[Mikejas]

Please excuse the delay, Kayakamina, but spent yesterday in Edinburgh buying tickets for the Festival. As usual you've been very helpful and I've now completed the puzzle. Last year I won a few tickets for shows through various papers, etc. and I'm hoping for some success this year too.