Speedy crossword No. 1,355

Across

1 Start to improve (4,3,6)

8 Deteriorate through neglect (2,2,3)

9 Old Testament city destroyed for its wickedness (5)

10 Defect (4)

11 Witches’ pot (8)

13 Release (3,3)

14 Standing, position (6)

17 C. 78% of the earth’s atmosphere (8)

19 Capable (4)

21 Broadcasting (2,3)

22 Polar vehicle (7)

24 17th March (2,8,3)

Down

1 Towing ship (3)

2 Withdraw (7)

3 Regularly drink to excess (4)

4 Ensnare (6)

5 Out of date (8)

6 Lowest point (5)

7 Recollect with pleasure (9)

10 Involved in crime (9)

12 Tyrant (8)

15 Non-broadsheet paper (7)

16 Mediaeval Florentine family (6)

18 Vagrant (5)

20 Kiss lightly (4)

23 Consider idly (3)