Cryptic crossword No 1,397

Very nice, Coot. Held up with my final one which I'll refer to in Reply but, otherwise, a nice approachable romp. Likes include 4a, 9a, 13a, 23a, 2d, 6d, 8d, 20d. Spoilers in Reply. Thanks. PM

Thanks Coot. For me this was the best of your puzzles I have tried. I thought the level was right, with clever cluing (4a, 23a, 26a, 7d take a bow) and a nice smattering of wit (I'm looking at you 15a, 17a, 16d, 20d). The level was slightly better for me too, so all round a quibble-free thumbs up from me, you'll be glad to hear! Just one observation/question...

Great stuff, thanks Coot. Typically smartly clued throughout and laced with humour. Unfortunately 19a came up in today's Telegraph clued almost identically, but if course that's no one's fault! I really liked 7,9 (succinct and clever) 11/12&25a plus3,5,13lol, 16&21d. Many thanks

Thanks Coot. I needed a couple of reveals so still need to practice more, I guess.

Top stuff, thanks Coot. 26a (a perfect example of its type) just pips 4a to COTD for me, amongst plenty of contenders. Spoilers ...

Theme went over my head as per usual. I failed on 2d and 5d surprisingly. Favourites were 25a and especially 4a (brilliant).....

Tasty stuff Coot, a few clues keeping me on my toes but all fell into place with much satisfaction. Lots to like: 4a (delightfully smooth), 9a (neat), 17a (very neat), 19a (neat), 24a (smooth), 25a (likewise), 2d (satisfying), 6a (smooth), 16d (fun) and 20a (very nice) - thanks for the puzzle!

Thanks for the puzzle Coot. Some laughs along the way. I especially liked 4a 16d 20d 3d and 13a. Found it tough in places, and needed a bit of help, because I just didn’t couldn’t quite get on your wavelength! No less enjoyable though. Cheers

Never had a hope of getting the theme, but a very enjoyable puzzle nonetheless! I especially liked 4a ;-) Other favourites were 11a, 3d, 13d, 16d, and 22d