Cryptic crossword No 3,139

Hi Jonnio, it looks like I’m the first to welcome you! I thought this was a very promising first offering with lots to like and admire. I picked out 10a, 24a, 1d, 2d and 20d as particular favourites. Generally your clueing is concise with some clever twists and teases. I managed to solve everything without much frustration though here and there I did raise an eyebrow at some of the constructions. More on that below if you’re interested…