Rufus has a seemingly effortless ability to write wonderful clues that are both precise and concise. His surface readings are incredible, given the small number of words that his clues typically comprise. Unlike many other solvers, I do not find him to be the ‘easiest’ of Guardian setters: his trademark is the plethora of (extremely) clever double definitions and cryptic definitions. These are always superbly crafted, but it isn’t always easy to tell what type of clue one is faced with in a Rufus puzzle – and cryptic defs only give one entry point into the solution. Nevertheless, they are always a pleasure to solve.

Sil has referred to Roger’s masterful use of English idiomatic phrases. One of my favourites of Rufus’s clues employs one idiomatic expression to represent another, via what is an ingenious double definition: ‘Out of sight, out of mind’ (5,3,4)

Happy Birthday and many more of them!

The biggest compliment I can give Roger Squires is that he has made a significant contribution to my understanding of the English language.
Many of his clues are based on idiomatic expressions and so natural that I wonder how on earth he has done this all those years, week after week. It seems so effortless.

The puzzles of Rufus and Dante have enriched my vocabulary and my ‘feel’ for a language that is not my first. I do not exaggerate when I say: they have enriched my life in England.

Like some others I had to privilege to meet Roger Squires on a few occasions. And I can only confirm: he is exactly like his puzzles are – warm, friendly, modest, natural!

Dear Roger, have a great birthday next week!
And long may you continue!