Daily hard — 2026-09-26

Across

1. 1. Trees commonly found along riverbanks in temperate regions. (12)
2. 3. Phrase often associated with honesty in confession or denial. (11)
3. 6. This bird delivers a loud 'boo' when startled. (7)
4. 7. Moved quickly and smoothly, like a speeding train. (11)
5. 8. In poker, to increase your bet after receiving cards. (11)
6. 12. Documents detailing specifications of products (10)
7. 13. Visual promotion aired on a television screen. (4)
8. 16. Phrase for a dish reheated for a second serving; often lacks originality (10)
9. 17. Competing in this sport can get dirtier than expected (8)
10. 18. What you should do when a surprise is planned for you. (9)
11. 19. Day known for jokes and pranks in springtime. (10)
12. 20. An offspring known for excessive chatter or complaints. (9)
13. 21. Common title for the British queen. (10)

Down

1. 1. Online shopping platform from Russia facing challenges recently. (11)
2. 2. Popular style of footwear often worn in autumn. (10)
3. 4. Period of reduced water levels in a tide or river. (8)
4. 5. Work through the details to reach a conclusion (12)
5. 9. Technique for improving reading efficiency (10)
6. 10. A significant occasion that draws attention or attendees. (5)
7. 11. Deceivers who trick people for money or goods. (11)
8. 14. Essential equipment for a baseball player. (10)
9. 15. Artist behind the album 'Day I Forgot'. (8)