Nick followed spinner who is first-rate (8)
I believe the answer is:
topnotch
'is first-rate' is the definition.
('topnotch' can be a synonym of 'first-rate')
'nick followed spinner' is the wordplay.
'nick' becomes 'notch' ('notch' can be a synonym of 'nick'**).
'followed' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'spinner' becomes 'top' (something that spins).
'notch' put after 'top' is 'TOPNOTCH'.
'who' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for topnotch that I've seen before include "First-rate, A-one" , "First rate" , "Excellent (informal)" , "Exceptional" , "Superb" .)