Cryptic crossword No 1,863

Thank you, some nice clues in there: 8a, 11a, 12a, 3d, 5d, 16d, 18d...

Thanks Gumbo. This kept me going over two or three passes and like Cigogne, I found some nice clues that gave me the ‘aha’ I look forward to when solving a good puzzle. I particularly appreciated 8a, 12a, 25a, 1d, 4d, 5d, 23d and enjoyed several others. A little more detailed discussion in reply. Spoilers…