Cryptic crossword No 1,569

Thanks buddy, great stuff. A bit late to the Corner today so will comment here instead - but good to see a positive reaction from the Big Dave crowd. Some very tough clues but all - eventually - worked out nicely. A few bits needed some checking in Chambers, but I enjoy that! My favourites: 8a, 12a, 18a, 27a, 7d, 17d, 20d & 24d with plenty of other contenders. Spoilers ...

Sorry to be tardy, Buddy, but hopefully better late than never. I missed RC as well but, looking at that site, you were well received on the whole. I did get through this though had a few that were unparsed. Faves inc 8a, 10a, 11a, 26a, 28a, 1d (despite Rabbit Dave!), 2d, 7d, 17d and 19d. Spoilers in Reply. Thanks. PM

Thanks both for comments. Never heard of Ray T and no idea why he has a patent on sweetheart. Must get out more....