Cryptic crossword No 636

It's been quite a while since I have been active here- life here in Samoa has been very hectic! Great to see some new names and I've been enjoying having a go at some fantastic puzzles! Hope you enjoy this- any feedback warmly welcomed as always!

Thanks suka, a lovely puzzle with lots to enjoy - favourites include: 1a, 18a (see spoilers), 22a, 25a, 2d, 8d, 16d, 20d with overall fave perhaps 17d. Spoilers follow ...

Thanks suka for a nice and enjoyable puzzle. I failed on 18a but through no fault of the clue! Particular favourites were 5a (didn't know either of those meanings), 11a, 21a, 2d, 8d and 23d.

Hi suka, I really enjoyed this, and the theme made me grin when it emerged 😁 I especially liked 14a and 28a. Two spoileresque comments in the reply. But good work!

Talofa suka. Nice to see you again after quite a break. Some good ideas in here and you've clearly had the imagination working hard during your break from MyC. Likes included: 14a, 21a, 1d (you've mentioned the wrong country in your Annotations btw), 17d. Couple of queries in reply. Thanks. PM

Hi, suka, first one of yours that I’ve done. It really drew me in and had me doing my best to get to the end without help, although I couldn’t quite manage that. You’ve had many good comments already that had me nodding in agreement, so I’ll just be a lazy 18a and offer thanks and a tip of the hat.