This crossword No. 550 clues and answers were published on Sun 02 Apr 2006 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Speedy Crossword No. 550 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
1-across – Allot parts in film, play : CAST
3-across – Inclination, bent : PENCHANT
8-across – Distinctive atmosphere : AURA
9-across – Headlong rush : STAMPEDE
11-across – Ominous : PORTENTOUS
14-across – Secretive person; bivalve : OYSTER
15-across – Recoil, shrink back : FLINCH
17-across – Fortress : STRONGHOLD
20-across – Meddler : BUSYBODY
21-across – Responsibility : ONUS
22-across – Disorder, ruffle : DISHEVEL
23-across – Festive occasion : GALA
All Down Clues and Answers:
1-down – Advocate, defender : CHAMPION
2-down – Startle : SURPRISE
4-down – Essence, existence : ENTITY
5-down – Disguise : CAMOUFLAGE
6-down – Peak : APEX
7-down – Arduous journey : TREK
10-down – Delightful : DELECTABLE
12-down – Sleeplessness : INSOMNIA
13-down – Zimbabwe, formerly : RHODESIA
16-down – Caress : FONDLE
18-down – Yet to rise : ABED
19-down – Egyptian goddess : ISIS
This crossword has in total 24 where 12 are across and 12 are down.