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Darla, Brendan, if you were thinking this may be a hint at a personal milestone for the setter… perhaps. I can see he is on 289 in the Guardian but given he also sets in the Times and Independent this doesn’t seem beyond the realms of possibility.

…and the Guardian number I quoted doesn’t include Quiptics, of which Pasquale has set many, so it could be a Guardian total in fact.

I’ve seen the issue in 2d described as a “cook” (borrowing the term from chess problems). That is, the possibility of a valid answer which is not the intended one.

I can't decide what to enter in 2d either.
Not sure I have 19a right - can't decide on the first letter, and can't parse either - how does "Enemy falling short" give either?
NHO 13a or 15d
Favourite 16a.

Thanks Pasquale for a gentle but very enjoyable puzzle. I have limited time today so really glad to be finished early. Haven't worked out 26a yet and a few answers such as 6d I didn't know but they're all very solvable from the clues whether you know the word or not.

Can't call COD until I work out 26a

Chris, 19 is a three letter word for enemy without the last letter, then a two letter old city.

Thanks jono - neither of my possibilities was right!

On reflection, I would be surprised if 2d isn't the English version.

Stumped on parsing of 26a too!!

ish
What's the usual abbreviation for "Ambassador"?

Hmmm thank you (i think!!) ...the penny still hasn't dropped but I will focus my attention on your hint and see what happens!!