I was shocked yesterday to click through to fifteensquared and see that Neil Shepherd had died suddenly. His site, Alberich Crosswords, is one I have always referred people to for advice and for publication in a supportive environment. The proviso regarding medical reasons that is currently under ‘Latest News’ has become very poignant. I sincerely hope someone can be found to continue providing the support, advice and exposure that Neil so unstintingly offered. Meanwhile, do go and look at his site, and check out his puzzles (I just have). It’s far more elaborate than anything you’ll see here.
The new puzzle this time is the Inquisitor that shares its setter’s blog with the Enigmatic Variations puzzle I put up last time. (There’s also a solving blog available.) The two did indeed appear over the same weekend – I always feel both pleased and annoyed when this happens. Always nice to be published, of course, but I do feel a little for those who cannot escape my style. Today’s Inquisitor (still on my solving pile) is by Ifor, so Kcit’s appearance tomorrow with Additive is less of a monopoly.
I’ve just heard that Kcit is also going to supply the Telegraph Toughie on 12 May, just before my next update. Otherwise the Friday Independent puzzles carry on as usual.
Leave a Reply