Cryptic crossword No 1,911

Challenging, but not quite as tough as your SI gave me the impression of being. I particularly got a kick out of 15a, 23a, 25a, 26a(!), 38a, 41a, 1d, 17d, 21d, 31d among others. Some seemed to be stretching the envelope a bit (e.g. 11a, 28a, 6d, 27d - defs mainly), but I’ll leave any quibbling to others. Apart from needing one letter reveal to make progress in the SW corner, this one was right up my street. So thanks!

Thanks Dave, that was excellent. The grid was friendly but I thought the clues were as well. I didn't need to reveal anything but I couldn't parse 39a and 40a without your notes. Favourites included 15a, 24a, 30a, 33a, 37a, 41a, 1d, and 2d. More in reply.

Great stuff Dave, thanks. And as the others have said, not as tricky as you suggested. The friendly grid probably helped with that. Needed your notes to parse a few: 9a, 13a, 40a. Admirably concise clueing and lots of wit to enjoy. Favourites: 10a, 26a, 28a (for the sheer cheek of it), 30a, 1d, 21d, 23d and 31d.

Good fun Dave! Finished without too much difficulty. 28a was very sneaky. 38a my favourite