Across

1 People loved going round north-east groups of parishes (9)

6 Face protection found by away player who has lost it (5)

9 All fine with a holy creature (5)

10 Parish houses about a hundred party members (9)

11 Give a lift to French pupil carrying a type of cross (7)

12 The French imitating action of lords at Christmas (7)

13 Book revealing source of cake — one with fizz beginning to cheer us(14)

17 Devil hopes the simple will be upset (14)

21 Philosopher, one of five depicted in a Roman coin (7)

23 Anticipate warning on course associated with Durham maybe (7)

25 Loving a party, helping afterwards (9)

26 Scotch broth to have pulse (5)

27 Prophet and supermodel full of energy (5)

28 Appalling old lover joining city mob expelling bishop (9)

Down

1 Sees girl touching ring before church — she’s missing husband! (8)

2 Open-mouthed expression of love (5)

3 Bet Sheila upset John’s mother! (9)

4 Middle East citizen is artist and priest (7)

5 Nurses devastated, luckless losing start of leave (7)

6 Plant instrument in the orchestra (5)

7 Religious song in university a learner offered after strong drink (9)

8 Step down and confirm new contract? (6)

14 Unsuspecting American follows set of doctrines that protects core element of cult (9)

15 Meek type getting the earth? (9)

16 Get together, spreading measles round Brighton’s front (8)

18 Like Roman chapel’s function, providing sanctuary for one saint (7)

19 Resentment associated with barrier (7)

20 Greeting son in the style of Parisian before noon (6)

22 Approaches organ located between chancel points (5)

24 Woody plant identified by personnel in diving vessel (5)

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