2.25 starting issues

I have rebuilt a series 3 2.25 88” . I replaced the wiring loom, alternator but left the engine as it runs very well. On starting it never fires while cranking but consistently starts as the key is released and runs perfectly thereafter. Is this normal or have I made wrong connections somewhere?

Yes you'll have the power to the ignition on the wrong blade on the back of the switch. Find the one that is live on position 2 and 3, not just 2

Thank you, I’ll check that

Just to check, should the white /red from the solenoid be on the same terminal as the white that goes via the fuse to the alternator and the distributor?

I'm not sure on the colours but don't over think it

Thank you