Cryptic crossword No 2,298

Lots of fun. Had to reveal a fair few letters, which is normal for me. Loved 1a and 1d in particular. Thanks for the puzzle!

Very good, thank you. Liked 24d (obv), a good start, and also think I can see where 28a came from. Other likes included 5a, 11a, 12a, 18a, 22a, 1d, 2d, 3d, 5d, 24d.

Ho ho. This was somewhat beyond my pay grade, ALP. I got some way in - I won't embarrass myself by saying how far - and hit rather a lot of brick walls so enjoyed reading through your annotations. 1d, 4d and 5d are my podium from the ones I solved. Thanks. PM

Gosh, ALP, that was a bruising encounter that left me feeling inadequate! I managed a third or so unaided, then had to resort to a combination of reveals/your notes/Chambers to unravel this. I do admire the brilliance of your clueing in combination with the silky surfaces and this was no exception but if this is the level I'll have to up my game. 12a, 27a, 4d, 23d from what I solved + 24d of course. 19d defeated me but pre-Ashes event deserves a special award!