Cryptic crossword No 2,030

Haven't even looked at the puzzle, yet, Cicogne - that'll be later today or tomorrow. But I thought you might be amused: an overhasty glance at the photo and the very first thought was 'why has the photographer cut off the head of the ostrich and jut shown its long neck?'

And here I am having done the puzzle with a 'proper' comment. One of your best, I thought. Some really accomplished cluing in here with some cracking surfaces in which to hide it. The odd eyebrow-raise but they were very few in number. Loads of things I could tick but, to keep it to a manageable number, faves inc: 8a, 9a, 18a, 20a, 23a, 24a, 26a, 1d, 2d, 3d, 4d and 17d which is outrageous but funny. Thanks. PM

Thanks Cigogne, good stuff. Faves from an impressive bunch include 10a (though would prefer without the quote marks which *slightly* disrupt the cryptic reading), 13a ("behind" working much better than the original), 23a, 26a (a tad long perhaps but a nice 'story'), 2d, 4d, 16d & 17d (arguably a "two-step" process but fun). Thanks again!

Very good Cigogne, thanks. Found this one pretty tricky, especially in the NE where I was rather badly beaten! Like PM, I’m finding it tricky to manage the list of favourites, but I’ll settle for: 10a, 12a, 23a, 24a (COTD), 25a, 4d, 15d, 16d and 21d.

Yep, I’ve got to agree with PM. One of your best yet, for sure. Some lovely refs, misdirects & clever WP. Better still, no obscure (to me, anyroad) composers. Not sure 7d quite works as a cryptic, mind. Very you, though! Especial ticks for 8a, 9a, 13a and 17d. Really admired 10a, too. Just clocked Fez’s pre-rejig comment. I’m a big fan of quote marks (& I’ll ALWAYS stick up for ‘em) but I can’t imagine why/where you’d insert them here. That’s what italics are for, surely?! Ta lots. Twas a belter