Daily hard — 2026-09-14

Across

1. 2. Swiftly passing a competitor during a contest (8)
2. 11. Term describing the action of the police during an arrest (12)
3. 12. In the US, often associated with foreclosures and housing crises (9)
4. 15. One of the Fellowship, he is a son of Thranduil. (7)
5. 17. Historic port city in North East England with strong football roots. (10)
6. 22. Metaphorical creatures in theatre representing vocal dissenters (8)
7. 23. To submit or show submission in fealty. (11)
8. 24. To bring a new life into the world (11)

Down

1. 1. Often associated with raves and festivals in the UK. (7)
2. 3. This team's home ground is the Estádio da Luz, a venue for Euro 2004. (7)
3. 4. Instrument associated with angry mobs in folklore. (9)
4. 5. Anonymised internet segment known for privacy and illicit trade (7)
5. 6. Often accompanies a humorous or flirtatious remark in conversation. (4)
6. 7. Genus of flagellated protists named after a Greek word for 'well' (7)
7. 8. Abandoned ship said to be crewed by spirits. (9)
8. 9. Home to the world's largest twin festival, held since 1976 (9)
9. 10. A casual response indicating agreement or understanding. (4)
10. 13. Concept underpinning debates about the rule of law (8)
11. 14. Used in the context of online communities for sharing information (10)
12. 16. Study of population trends, notably in elections (11)
13. 18. Service founded in 1958, named after a Nebraska college professor. (11)
14. 19. A phrase suggesting the wealthy should be targeted. (10)
15. 20. Items often found in restrooms for toiletries or hygiene products. (10)
16. 21. Type of glasses named for a French term meaning 'to look' (10)