Thanks to Les for all the work to keep this going, & to AB for the clear wordplay layout.
Don't worry about the odd typo. Heck of a job to edit all that.
Managed only a small portion the first day, then put it aside (family situation). Didn't think I would complete it this time. Came back to it & finished shortly before the solution was posted. Pleasant surprise.
Tougher every month. The bar has certainly been raised !
My faves: two stars for 17A, 43A*, 35D -- excellent phrasing.
Also: 22A, 29A, 37A, 42A*, 1D, 6D, 46D.
* after seeing the wordplay.
Well done, everyone.