Cryptic crossword No 1,215

Thanks Gradgrind, some lovely stuff here - particular favourites (and mostly those that were last to fall) include 11a (cheekily done), 16a (clever), 20a 13a (nice def), 2d ("writer's content" very good), 7d (succinct), 14d (funny - should it be "people"/”doctors" rather than necessarily "men"?) & 24d (nicely worked pun). A few minor quibbles, but nothing to hinder solving or enjoyment - as a joint effort, well done all & thanks again!

Splendid effort, Gradgrind and colleagues. I found myself taking note of how many times I smiled - with delight or wryly - as pennies dropped. It was very cleanly clued: if I solve numerically right the way through in a single pass, then that is really fine cluing. I did, bar one - 2d! Lots to like and plenty I could tick as faves: I'll highlight 16a, 21a, 28a, 3d/27d, 4d, 5d, 6d, 7d and 8d. Yes, the odd quibble which I could share if you want but a superb team construction. Thanks. PM

Thanks and well done to Gradgrind and co for a splendid crossword that was lots of fun. If you like you can watch/hear me solve this at twitch.tv/contocrosswords - if you do I hope it's fun/useful, and I hope my occasional pedantry is well smothered by my overriding enthusiasm!

Good to see you here again Gradgrind, and well done to you and your friends. That’s a great idea for a U3A group! Lots of super clues notwithstanding some minor quibbles, which PM has listed well. I was surprised to see a clue very similar to one that I have in an upcoming puzzle (honest!). My picks were: 11a (albeit I agree an EM would be handy), 1d, 3d 27d (COTD), 4d, 7d and 17d.