This crossword No. 26556 clues and answers were published on Mon 27 Apr 2015 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Cryptic Crossword No. 26556 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
1-across – Courage following trouble may provide comfort in retirement : HOTWATERBOTTLE
8-across – Concerning the morning’s papers : REAMS
9-across – Keeps us confined in bad spots : SUSTAINS
11-across – I’d return to awkward point and read just a few passages : DIPINTO
12-across – Outdoor writer bursting into love song : OPENAIR
13-across – Points to the girl to follow : ENSUE
15-across – Feels a bit irritated by trifling annoyances : FLEABITES
17-across – Group going after sin? : VICESQUAD
20-across – Sensational piece of luck getting free : LURID
21-across – Squirming eels can be seen in twists together : ENLACES
23-across – Notices damaged part : SECTION
25-across – Handy treatment for wild flower : MANICURE
26-across – Proof of a convenient absence? : ALIBI
27-across – Music industry backer, who notes down each and every act : RECORDINGANGEL
All Down Clues and Answers:
1-down – Beginner’s course in French : HORSDOEUVRES
2-down – Go for a long walk, or take up afternoon painting : TRAMP
3-down – Not so busy types told to go in a busy type’s place : ABSENTEES
4-down – We hear cockney bloke’s going to relax : EASEOFF
5-down – Is said to be ordered beforehand : BESPOKE
6-down – Employment exchange? : TRADE
7-down – Gaunt house : LANCASTER
10-down – Parent lied — is out of order, like Nixon and Clinton? : PRESIDENTIAL
14-down – Is one ill at ease with this? : SICKLEAVE
16-down – Battle helmet : BALACLAVA
18-down – Imperfect result of a French test : UNSOUND
19-down – Spot Cinders acting up : DISCERN
22-down – Company about to declare capital : CAIRO
24-down – Freezing, despite a topcoat? : ICING
This crossword has in total 28 where 14 are across and 14 are down.