Jools....you must give them a try! I am sure you will enjoy them. I used to avoid them at all costs, still not too good, but love the challenge and how they make you think. The one on a Monday in the Telegraph is often a bit easier. Have a look at it. I know you will enjoy them once you get started!
I did try with a couple this week, but my brain does not seem to be able to grasp them. :-) They look easy when Jim shows me, but then when left to my own devices the brain just seems to sieze up.
Very well done dwil. Hope it is the first of many. To anyone scared of cryptic crosswords - don't be! They are challenging and use more brain power than the GK type, but there's a real sense of satisfaction when you complete one. I couldn't even understand the clues until my husband explained it all, what to look for, anagrams, certain key words, and once you always help at hand on the AB.