Cryptic crossword No 1,978

Enjoyably friendly. Some lovely anagram spots and strong surfaces. I especially enjoyed 8a, 11a, 14a, 16a, 25a, 1d and 17d. I must applaud 16a’s def. Spot on. And I liked 3d but I suspect there may be a tighter/funnier def in there somewhere. Not that I can think of one, off hand. But that isn’t even remotely a quibble. Very good indeed. Ta lots.

A very enjoyable puzzle. Took a while to crack into the right hand side but it fell into place pleasingly after that. Highlights for me were 4a, 9a, 14a, 25a, 3d and 10d. Thanks again!

Thanks Gumbo, good fun. Faves 4a, 9a, 24a, 1d & 21d. Spoiler...