Cryptic crossword No 2,456

Nice one Benedict. For me, it was one of those that look impossible to start with, but I gradually tease out the solutions. I just failed on 10a, which I hadn't heard of. My favourites were 20a and 25d. Spoilers...

Welcome to MyC Benedict and congratulations on a very accomplished debut puzzle. Your cluing is commendably succinct and surfaces are generally good. Favourites: 1a, 20a, 1d, 8d (lovely disguise), 16d and 24d. Spoilers…

Thanks Benedict & welcome. Faves include 1a, 20a, 22a, 1d (though I think it merits a "?" at the end), 7d, 8d, 16d & 21d. Spoilers ...

As others have said, welcome to MyC, Benedict. With a very nice debut. I think you said (on BS?) that it is your first; if so, very smooth with, as Coot says, nice surfaces and succinct cluing. The odd rough edge but, frankly, very little to complain about. Likes inc 1a, 12a, 20a, 22a (COTD for the overall CAD) 2d, 7d, 16d, 18d, 21d and 23d. Thanks. PM