This crossword No. 453 clues and answers were published on Sun 23 May 2004 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Speedy Crossword No. 453 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
5-across – Intricate deception : DOUBLEBLUFF
7-across – Pre-owned : USED
8-across – Perverse, obstinate : CONTRARY
9-across – District : QUARTER
11-across – Moist, damp : HUMID
13-across – Head of monastery : ABBOT
14-across – Aerial sport : GLIDING
16-across – Encouraging muscle growth : ANABOLIC
17-across – Front end : PROW
18-across – Form of energy : ELECTRICITY
All Down Clues and Answers:
1-down – Stock, resources : FUND
2-down – Shine unsteadily; waver : FLICKER
3-down – Hard black wood : EBONY
4-down – Encircle : SURROUND
5-down – Distraction : DISTURBANCE
6-down – Intrusive out-of-place element : FOREIGNBODY
10-down – Non-alcoholic beverage : ROOTBEER
12-down – Limp, flabby : FLACCID
15-down – Select body, cream : ELITE
17-down – Prudish, formal : PRIM
This crossword has in total 20 where 10 are across and 10 are down.