Cryptic crossword No 1,987

Fabulous stuff, not too tricky but still required thought so by no means a write-in. Some superb clues too such as 8a, 15a, 19a, 2d, 5d and 9d. More in reply. Thanks!

Thanks Meles, good stuff. Faves include 1a, 12a, 15a, 19a, 1d, 5d & 20d. Difficulty-wise I think you hit your intended "middle ground". Thanks again!

A delightful blend of difficulty, this. Largely friendly, with the odd kicker. Lots to like, including 8a, 15a, 19a, 25a, 2d, 5d (whip-smart) 9d and 22d. Good grief, I’ve just realised I’m all but parroting Henri. Well, he was absolutely right! Beautifully done. Ta lots.

Well done Meles. Another typically smooth and inventive set of clues. Looks like I shall be parroting the parroting in my list of faves: 8a, 11a, 12a, 19a, 25a, 2d, 4d, 5d, 13d and 22d. Thanks. PM

This is very, very nice Meles. Super clueing rich with invention. Among my many likes are 12a, 15a, 18a, 1d very cute, 5d brilliant, 9d, 23d

Rather late to this Meles as I’m playing post-holiday catch-up. Very pleased I got to it though - lots of great clues. Relatively gentle, I thought - certainly compared with others on my catch-up trail! I particularly enjoyed 1a, 15a, 25a, 26a, 5d and 22d. Spoilers …