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I enjoyed the chess part of the clue, but did not parse it quickly (that "check" usage).

I watched a big online chess tournament today (Airthings Masters qualifier), so was warmed up in that regard. 😁

A number of really excellent clues this week, although I found it really tough at first (as I often do). In addition to the ones already highlighted, I would like to mention 14a and 18d for elegantly smoothly written. I learned a few new things, such as what jollies refer to, although I have no idea why. I'll have to look it up.

"elegantly smoothly "? Time for bed I think.

Hi Rainman, I know what you mean - elegance and a smooth surface really do combine well to produce great clues.

Geeker, thanks for the info on the Airthings Masters Qualifiers 2022, I've just been watching the Carlsen/Artemiev game on YouTube:-)

....and yes, I have realised I was watching last year's tournament! 🤬

Similar experience to Brendan @1 - first pass only yielded 13a (immediate favourite), but after a couple more went in, the rest was completed rapidly.

Was ok with ‘checks’ being used that way. The 3rd definition in Chambers is “to restrain”. Interesting to read up on the etymology of the expression, which seems to be that building those things in that place, until about the 15th century, was futile because they just got knocked down by the locals :-)

23d immediately reminded me of a clue from yesterday, and coincidentally that was also 23d!

Ticks for 6d, 13a and others. Good fun I thought.

An enjoyable puzzle
FOI 1a
LOI 21d which was also a new word for me, as also was the meaning in 6d and the interior of 17a
Liked the Pauline 15d but go for 8d as COD

Hi Eagle
Not sure what you mean by "interior of 17a". It parses 1,6, with the first letter of the "6" removed.

Sorry Chrise
meant 22a, senior moment!