This crossword No. 9996 clues and answers were published on Sat 18 May 2002 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Quick Crossword No. 9996 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
1-across – Words to a sick person – towel on legs : GETWELLSOON
9-across – Hard Swiss cheese : EMMENTHAL
10-across – Female sheep : EWE
11-across – Simultaneous discharge of guns : SALVO
13-across – Wall decoration behind altar : REREDOS
14-across – Desire for food : HUNGER
15-across – Chocolate-topped, cream-filled cake : ECLAIR
18-across – Resembling a fish : PISCINE
20-across – Assesses value of – property taxation system : RATES
21-across – Resort with mineral water spring : SPA
22-across – Start : ORIGINATE
24-across – Marries : GETSHITCHED
All Down Clues and Answers:
2-down – Tree : ELM
3-down – Attractive : WINSOME
4-down – Large domestic pigeon – city in Pakistan : LAHORE
5-down – Using the energy of the sun : SOLAR
6-down – Bank borrowing : OVERDRAFT
7-down – Is sacked : GETSTHEPUSH
8-down – Puts one’s clothes on : GETSDRESSED
12-down – Type of painting : LANDSCAPE
16-down – Relating to the heart : CARDIAC
17-down – The Twins : GEMINI
19-down – Fetters : IRONS
23-down – Wonder : AWE
This crossword has in total 24 where 12 are across and 12 are down.