50% off limited time offer

Subscribe

Crosswords

Caitlin O'Kane

Azed’s clue-writing competition: the end of an era, and a celebration to come

After 54 years, Jonathan Crowther is stepping down as judge of The Observer’s clue-writing competition. Our puzzles editor looks back at its history and what comes next

Fri 30 Jan 2026

Latest

How Azed and Gemelo create their crosswords

Sun 19 Oct 2025

How Azed and Gemelo create their crosswords
Caitlin O'Kane
The Puzzle Edit: how we led the way with the toughest puzzles of all

Sun 12 Oct 2025

The Puzzle Edit: how we led the way with the toughest puzzles of all
Azed No. 2,758

Sun 27 Apr 2025

Azed No. 2,758

See more (5)

About

Contact usFAQsAbout us
Work with usCareersEditorial policy

Join

Journalism school
EventsShop

Follow

The Observer
The Observer Magazine
The ObserverNew Review
The Observer Food Monthly
Copyright © 2025 Tortoise MediaPrivacy PolicyTerms & Conditions