Quick crossword No 252

Solution blog with solving hints and tips can be found from Friday here-> https://reinterred.blogspot.com/2025/05/weekend-quick-cryptic-129-solution.html

Slow start -followed by a steady and much enjoyed solve. Delightfully varied clues. LOI 12D, biffed, having failed (again) to link 'had' with 'ate'. Wondered a little at 2D 'detectives' (plural) > DIC? Thank you John and Sawbill.

Enjoyed this, thank you, Sawbill.