Cryptic crossword No 806

Another triumph! Loved this even more than the last one. Such a clever execution. A few slightly eyebrow-y clues but all forgiven as the construct is the absolute star here. I had to tackle the downs first to get a toehold but I got there in the end. 8d, 16d and 19d are top-notch. Bravo! 👏 A few spoilery comments to follow…

Interesting to see this format used again, Mary. It must be challenging to put together your across clue stories. I liked quite a number though generally preferred the Downs from a solving perspective. Including 1d, 3d, 4d, 19d, 25d (though a grim surface to choose). Of the Acrosses, 19a is a lovely spot. Not sure what to make of 17a - outrageous but certainly amusing. Spoilers in Reply. Thanks. PM

Another impressively fun puzzle Mary, thanks! PM has given some sage advice that you seem to have taken well on board and I look forward to seeing more of your creativity. I particularly liked 9a (very clean), 11a (very neat), 1d (fun), 4d (likewise), 8d (close), 14d (neat), 19d (neat idea) and 25d (neat). Nice one :)