visit reindeer cheshire

Magical festive reindeer experience on Cheshire border is back for Christmas - but some things will be different

Santa has a newly designed Grotto, and there'll be lots more family fun

• 14:30, 1 SEP 2020

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September is here and that means we're on a countdown to Christmas, which will be here before we know it.

Now is the time to start thinking about some festive family days out, and there's one not too far away which is always usually a firm favourite. 

Reindeer Lodge, set within 50 acres of the Welsh border countryside in Mold has hills, lakes, fresh water streams and enchanted woodland, and offers the perfect fun packed festive experience for families.

This year there have been a few changes to adhere to safety guidelines in the wake of coronavirus, but you'll be able to see more reindeer than ever before in their paddocks and close up in the stables, as well as visit Santa in his brand newly designed grotto.

There will also be an all new stage show, donkey rides and fun fairground rides, which are all included in the ticket price.

Visitor numbers have been reduced this year for safety so it is strongly advised to book tickets early, not least to ensure you see Santa at your preferred time. 

Writing on their Facebook page, staff said: "It's been a pretty strange year for everyone and we'd like to give our visitors something to look really forward to this December, with a safe and magical visit to the Reindeer Lodge.

"As part of our extensive Covid-19 safety measures we are reducing visitor numbers to ensure a safe environment for everyone with social distancing throughout the site.

"We've removed ride tokens and ALL fairground rides are now included in your ticket price with unlimited rides with limited visitor numbers which means less waiting and more fun."

"There's also an all new stage show and brand new toy workshop and grotto, what's more there will be NO queuing to see Father Christmas, we'll lead you through from the Toy Workshop to see him when it's your turn to visit Santa's Grotto.

The Reindeer Lodge is open for pre-booked ticket holders only on selected dates from 5th December.

The new safety measures in place:

• The lodge is operating with reduced visitor numbers this year and staggered entry times to ensure social distancing can be maintained throughout the site.
• On arrival visitors will be given details of the latest procedures and a map of the attraction.
• Visitors arriving early are asked to remain in their vehicles until 5 minutes before their ticket check in time.
• There is a strict one way system around the whole site to avoid congestion and visitors are asked to adhere to social distancing guidlines. 2m markers are on display around the venue.
• There will be Covid-19 trained cleaners for all areas of the venue.
• All staff are all temperature checked and safety briefed daily on their arrival.
• As an outdoor attraction face masks are not presently required, however they are encouraged for all indoor areas and this may become compulsory in line with Welsh Government guidlines.
• Hand sanitiser stations are provided throughout the site and visitor usage is required before each ride or activity.
• Donkey ride handles, Fairground rides and attractions are routinely sanitised.
• Ride Tokens have now been removed so they are no longer handled by visitors or staff. Unlimited rides are now included before the show within the entry ticket price. To maintain the one way system and enable social distancing there is no return to the fairground for visitors after their Grotto visit. This will reduce numbers in the fairground and enable visitors to enjoy access to all the rides quickly without waiting. 
• There are dedicated cleaners for the toilets for continuous sanitising.
• Outdoor eating areas are spaced at 2m and cleaned between uses.
• Food and serving staff are Covid-19 trained.
• Protection screens are fitted to serving counters and serving areas and counter tops are routinely sanitised.
• Contactless payment is preferred for all on site transactions including, food, drink, facepainting, hook-a-penguin, sweet shop, shop and photographs. Chip and PIN and cash may still be used with shared contact surfaces sanitised between use.
• All indoor areas are laid out for social distancing for your family/group bubble.
• Seating for the show is set out with 2m distancing between groups. Seats are sanitised between each show.
• Toy workshop benches are set out a minimum of 2m apart from each family/group bubble. Toy Workshop benches are sanitised between each use.
• Visitors to Santa's Grotto will go through to see Father Christmas in individual family/group bubbles. Grotto visits will be limited to 8 people per family/group bubble. Groups above this size will be split in to bubbles of 8 or less to enter the grotto.
• Visitors will be lead through to the Santa's Grotto when it is their time to see Father Christmas, there will be no queue to see him.
• There will be no physical contact between visitors and Father Christmas and we kindly ask visitors to maintain their distance from him. Photographs with Father Christmas are still available on the marker points shown in the grotto.

Tickets cost £18.95 for adults and £21.95 for children from 5th-23rd December. On Christmas Eve, adult tickets cost £19.95 and £22.95 for children.

Each ticket includes entry to the Reindeer Lodge, meet the reindeer and reindeer talks, unlimited fairground rides, seats for the all new stage show and toy workshop and individual family visits to see Father Christmas in his brand new Santa's Grotto.

Each child and baby ticket holder also receive an age appropriate gift from the Santa's Grotto. Babies under 1-year are free to enter with a paying adult (1 baby per adult ticket purchased).

• Most Recent

A Drive-Thru Christmas Safari Just One Hour From Manchester Is Set To Bring Some Festive Cheer

Have a holly, jolly Christmas as you see cute reindeers up close, marvel at light displays and meet the big man Father Christmas.

After saving many a Christmas back in the dark days of 2020 as Lockdown 2.0 was set to steal all festive cheer, Reindeer Lodge – a wonderful reindeer farm in Mold, near Cheshire – has revealed that their Christmas-themed Reindeer Safari will be back once more this year. And there are some new features too!

Introduced to allow guests to safely visit the farm under Covid regulations, kids and adults alike are able to see the majestic reindeer from the comfort of their own cars, with added snow and enchanted lighting displays adding to the festive fever. Driving through the 1.5km trail, guests will also be able to check out stunning countryside views , as well as a Christmas lighting trail which will be surrounded by herds of reindeer.

Available to experience by day or by night, the Elves will also be present at the 50-acre lodge , with their hidden village which can be discovered from your car as part of the drive-through experience, and even a Toy Workshop , too. And for the grand finale, kids will be able to stop by for a visit with Father Christmas himself to receive a gift as part of the drive-thru grotto.

And the elves are not stopping there, with a new walk-in Christmas Village to explore after your trail, lots of enchanted lighting effects (including an awesome water display at the lake), snow capping and photo opportunities to be had for the family album. All ages are welcome, both with and without children and as a drive-thru we are pet friendly too.

The unique experience begins runs until December 24 (after all, its Father Christmas’ busiest night of the year), with pre-bookings required to attend. Festive food and drink will be available on-site, and tickets start at £45 per car.

Reindeer Lodge can be found at Black Meadows Farm, Leeswood, Mold, CH7 4SQ.

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Visit reindeer, an elf village and Santa's grotto all without leaving your car at drive-thru safari

The enchanted adventure is open throughout December

• 17:31, 10 DEC 2022

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This Christmas, you can catch a glimpse of real-life reindeer, a secret elf village and visit Santa’s grotto - all without leaving your car. The drive-through reindeer safari in Mold is an immersive family experience which will certainly get you in the Christmas spirit.

Head down to the Reindeer Lodge in Leeswood for a 1.5km drive-through trail. It has herds of reindeer, light displays, and an interactive mission to keep the whole family entertained.

The enchanted winter adventure is certainly not to be missed. From the paddocks of reindeer to the magic at the elf village and the illuminated lake, this experience is a feast for the eyes.

READ MORE: Scarlet fever cases confirmed at two North Wales primary schools

With chilly temperatures and even snowfall in some parts of North Wales this week, you can enjoy it all from the warmth and comfort of your car. The immersive experience is suitable for all ages and even pets.

What‘s included?

Entry to the enchanted drive-thru where you can see the herds of reindeer in their paddocks and stables, discover the hidden elf village and a magic show at the Elves Toy Workshop.

It also includes a visit to Santa’s grotto and a gift for every child. There’s also a chance to capture the family memory with a picture which is available to buy at the end of the visit.

Where is Reindeer Lodge?

Black Meadows Farm, Leeswood, Mold, CH7 4SQ

For Sat Nav use: CH7 4SB

How do I book?

Visits to the Reindeer Lodge are available throughout December with enchanted trial experiences available from £35 per car (prices vary depending on time and date). Tickets are available to book online, with 90-minute slots available throughout December.

Bookings are made per vehicle and charged per person, with a maximum of seven occupants. Larger vehicles like mini buses and coaches are not permitted. For ticket enquiries please email [email protected]

What other facilities are available?

Toilets are available in the arrival and departure areas. Festive hot food, kids meals and festive drinks are also available to purchase by scanning a QR code. You can also warm up at the hot chocolate station along the way.

Have you visited Reindeer Lodge? Let us know in the comments section below .

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Team Wanderlust | 18 December 2019

7 of the best places to see wild (and not-so-wild) reindeer.

If you want to see Rudolph and co yourself – whether in the wild or in a conservation environment – you can’t go wrong with these destinations…

Reindeer (or caribou, as the non-domesticated North American reindeer is known) aren’t always easy to see in the wild. Often, your best chance of spotting one is to visit a reserve dedicated to looking after these majestic, and undeniably festive, creatures.

That said, if you find yourself in the right part of the world, a wild sighting is totally possible and  incredibly rewarding. So, don’t give up the ghost: there are chances to marvel at, engage with and even care for reindeer in the Arctic Circle, North America and even in the UK.

Here are the best places to see reindeer…

1. swedish lapland.

A reindeer in the snowy Swedish Lapland (Shutterstock)

There are a reported 300,000 reindeer currently living in Sweden, which certainly suggests you’ve got a good chance of seeing at least one yourself.

Swedish Lapland is your obvious port of call. In Lapland, reindeer form part of the way of life for the Sami people, a 170,000-strong indigenous group who live deep in the Arctic north: not just in Sweden, but also Norway, Finland and even Russia. Their land is called Sápmi.

Here, reindeer herding is commonplace, and has been for hundreds of years. There are countless opportunities to get close to them. Nutti Sami Siida , in particular, offers a sensational reindeer sledding experience. 

2. Cairngorms Reindeer Centre, Scotland

Reindeer in Cairngorms National Park, Scotland (Shutterstock)

One of Wanderlust ’s best snow and ice experiences , the Cairngorms Reindeer Centre , located in the eponymous national park, is a must for those hoping to see reindeer. Especially if you don't want to embrace Arctic temperatures.

The centre offers a guided walk through the Cairngorms hills every day (except during the biting winter month of January, and the beginning of February), to help wildlife lovers see the area’s 150-strong reindeer herd roam free.

Once back at the centre, you may have the opportunity to feed the reindeer and stroke them. If you do, make sure your follow your guide’s instructions.

3. Svalbard, Norway

A wild Svalbard reindeer (Shutterstock)

There’s an abundance of wild reindeer-spotting opportunities in Norway. On the archipelago of Svalbard, located between the North Pole and Norway's mainland, you're in prime position for a truly unique sighting opportunity.

You’ll have the chance to meet the smallest species of reindeer, appropriately named the Svalbard reindeer. Depending on their sex, they weigh between 56kg and 90kg, which is much smaller than reindeer found elsewhere (roughly 80kg to 120kg for females, or 160kg to 180kg for males).

Svalbard reindeer don’t tend to travel in large herds, either. Usually, you can expect to see single reindeer  (not literally) flying solo, or very small groups.They’re found all over Svalbard, so you won’t be struggling to find the exact location. You won’t, however, find them on any of the smaller, neighbouring islands.

4. Denali National Park, Alaska

Caribou before Mount Denali, Alaska (Shutterstock)

A reported 750,000 reindeer (or, as Alaskans would say, ‘caribou’) live across Alaska, some of which can be found out in the wilderness.

So, where to begin? One wild sighting spot worth visiting anyway is Denali National Park, where an approximate 3,000 caribou roam. If nothing else, this national park offers absolutely breathtaking views. Even Simon Reeve found himself flabbergasted during a recent excursion.

Alaska’s official website offers plenty of must-visits for those seeking caribou: the Kenai Peninsula, and highways north of Fairbanks top the list. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge offers a great chance, too. That said, you don’t need to go wild: The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre  is another to consider.

5. Inuvik, Canada

Reindeer in Inuvik, Canada (Shutterstock)

Is this Canada’s version of the Great Migration? It just might be… around 3,000 reindeer pass through Inuvik in the Northwest Territories of Canada during their winter to summer migration.  

The Mackenzie Delta Reindeer Herd, as they’re known, settled in this northerly Canadian region over 80 years ago, after caribou populations started to fall into serious decline. Fortunately, to address the issue, 3,500 were purposefully migrated from – you probably guessed it – Alaska. The herd has remained a similar size ever since.

Temps can drop to -30 °C in this neck of the woods, so you'll need to be prepared with seriously warm gear, and have on hand an expert guide.  Tundra North Tours offer a four-day Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk experience.

6. Finnish Lapland, Finland

Finnish reindeer ready to sleigh! (Shutterstock)

Reindeer and Finnish Lapland seem perfectly in sync. After all, Lapland is the home of Father Christmas, and who pulls along Santa’s sleigh? It’s probably no surprise that there are an abundance of opportunities to ride in a reindeer-led sleigh here. 

Raitola is in Rovaniemi, ideal if you’re staying central to Finnish Lapland’s Christmassy attractions. If you’re keen to explore more of Lapland, Kopara Reindeer Park  and Jaakkola Reindeer Farm  are two trusted options.

For a more local-led, authentic experience witnessing the reindeer (or simply one WITHOUT all the snow and sub-zero temperatures),  Visit Natives   offer tours of the Sami reindeer spring migration, during April and May. 

7. Tromsø, Norway

A traditionally-dressed Sami woman alongside a reindeer, in Tromsø, Norway (Shutterstock)

Tromsø , perhaps best known as a cracking Northern Lights destinations, is also a brilliant place to see reindeer. As part of Norwegian Lapland, it too has Sami residents – and their herds of reindeer – living in its Arctic north.

There are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in Sami culture, experience reindeer sledding and even feed reindeer, with Tromsø Lapland’s guided tours . Most tours operate from November to March, so wrap up warm, and keep your fingers crossed for a breathtaking Aurora Borealis sighting, too...

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Experience reindeer encounters and 'dazzling lights' on a festive drive-thru trail this Christmas

The event invites families to join in the magic of the season at the Reindeer Lodge

• 12:19, 14 DEC 2023
• Updated 13:47, 14 DEC 2023

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The holiday spirit is celebrated with an immersive drive-through experience - including a close encounter with reindeer, 'enchanting' light displays and meeting Father Christmas .

The event invites families to join in the magic of the season at the Reindeer Lodge - in Black Meadows Farm, Cheshire - and see reindeer from the comfort of their cars atop new festive lighting and special effects. Driving through the 1.3km trail visitors will find added features from more elves, new shows and a water display on the lake which unfolds around the trail. Children are even able to meet Father Christmas himself to receive a gift as part of the drive-thru experience.

Nestled within 'stunning' countryside views, this unique experience also invites guests to a new festive walk-around area with Christmas stalls (either day or night), festive food and drinks, face painting, photo opportunities, and watch elves performing in the Toy Workshop to get into the festive spirit.

The Reindeer Lodge's Facebook Post said: "Enjoy best of both worlds this Christmas at the Reindeer Lodge! Stay warm and dry through our awesome drive-thru trail PLUS walk around our stunning hidden Christmas Town!

"Meet up with friends and family, see more reindeer, sit in our new 360*VR sleigh ride, enjoy fairground rides and attractions, shop, eat, drink and roast marshmallows. Visit Toy Town Post Office to send your letters to Santa, watch the Elves creating a song and dance about making presents in the Toy Workshop and get some amazing photos to really get you in the festive spirit."

The Reindeer Lodge is available to see until 24 December, with pre-bookings required. Tickets start at £45 per car and you can book online here.

Reindeer Lodge is at Black Meadows Farm, Leeswood, Mold, CH7 4SQ.

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Reindeer Visits

Posted July 29th, 2013 by creator .

School visit.

A typical 2 hour visit may include …

• 1 Reindeer.
• 2 Elves with lichen to feed the reindeer (we provide the Lichen).
• 1 static sleigh to sit in for photos.
• We arrive early to set up and liase with a key member of staff.
• Set up animal enclosure and decorate.
• Set up antiseptic gel table and add signs.
• We provide an enclosure for the reindeer.
• Magic Dust pouches are available for an additional charge.

We will require space to park animal transport and change into festive costumes. Space is required on site to park a 4×4 and trailer or horse box.

Bookings are now being taken, please contact us to discuss your requirements. Special rates are available for midweek bookings at schools, call for more details.

We have several sleighs and reindeer available to pull them, if you would like one of our reindeer and sleigh arrivals please ask.

We are fully insured with a 5 million public liability, fully qualified staff, antiseptic gel, signs and risk assessments can be provided on request. All our staff are polite and professional and dressed in Christmas Costume.

Our reindeer are available to hire year round for adverts, promotions, events and visits. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and book early to avoid disappointment.

• 2 Reindeer in a decorated pen
• Lichen to feed the Reindeer
• 1 static sleigh for the Children to sit in

Where to visit reindeers in the UK

Did you know you can visit reindeers in the UK? When it comes to Christmas the reindeers are just as important as Santa. How else is he supposed to give gifts to all the children? So this Christmas take your kids to go and visit the reindeer. Here are some places around the UK where you can go and see reindeer this Christmas.

Quick links to information in this post

Powerscourt in Wicklow

For a fun day out with the kids, this festive season a trip to the Powerscourt Stables is perfect. You can meet a whole host of animals at the stables as well as Santa’s reindeer. The Powerscourt Stables are located beside Powerscourt Garden Pavilion.

Newbridge House and Farm in Dublin

What better day out than going on a reindeer spotting walk? Take the family to Newbridge House and Farm to visit reindeers, which can be spotted as you walk around. If you go on Christmas Eve you may even see Santa feeding them.

The Cairngorm National Park in Cairngorm

The Cairngorm Park is the UK’s only free-range herd of reindeer, so not only are you taking your family for a fun day out to see Santa’s furry friends, but you are also having an ethical day out! These reindeer are completely native to Scotland and are there all year round, but Christmas is the most magical time of year to visit them.

Pundfflad Farm in Swansea

During the farms Christmas Winter Wonderland events from November 16 to Christmas Eve. You can go and visit the reindeer, whilst picking out a Christmas tree. This is a fun day out for the family but to see when you can see the reindeer, you need to double-check the times for the day on their website.

Bargoed Winter Fair in Bargoed Town Centre

On November 25th (exactly a month to Christmas day) everyone is invited to Bargoed’s celebrations. With a whole host of things going on during the fair, it’s no surprise that there will be reindeer you can visit. So whether you are out Christmas shopping or there for the fair you can say hi to some reindeer.

Cotswold Reindeer Herd in the Cotswolds

The Cotswold is a very scenic spot during the holidays, providing the perfect atmosphere to visit reindeers. From November 21st to Christmas Eve, you can go and visit reindeer at The Cotswold Reindeer Herd . You can get up close and personal with the reindeer when you go and visit them.

Beamish Museum in County Durham

Beamish Museum is known for its Victorian theme but from November 17 until Christmas Eve you can go and feed reindeer when you visit. Seeing the reindeer is part of the museums Christmas events.

Whitworth Hall in Manchester

Unlike the rest of the places, you can go and meet reindeer in England. Whitworth Hall has the reindeer open to visitors all year round. You can bring some Christmas to a family trip at any point in the year. With their experience, you can go into the reindeer enclosure when you go to see them.

Capralama Farm near Kent

For those in the south, you can visit reindeer at The Reindeer Centre at Capralama Farm . You can go and visit them and even feed them a carrot.

That has been some of the best places to visit reindeers all around the UK this Christmas. Be sure to check their individual sites for more specific times and any price needed to see the majestic animals.

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Happy Holidays: Places Where You Can Actually Visit Reindeer

December 16, 2016 // By Anne Chalfant

By Anne Chalfant Travel and Cruise Expert December 16, 2016

Reindeer are magical.

They live in extremely cold climates, swim in ice-chunked water and look clumsy, yet can run 45 miles per hour. More to ponder – both males and females have antlers, yet somehow breed. ( Oh, and everyone knows reindeer can fly.)

Here's where you can catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

1. Pat a reindeer and watch feeding time

Reindeer are gentle creatures with velvety noses made for patting, and you can do so at Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm in Clare, Michigan. In Alaska, visit Reindeer Farm in Palmer, northeast of Anchorage, or Santa Claus House in North Pole. That's near Fairbanks and isn't the real North Pole – but don't tell the reindeer.

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You can also head north of the Arctic Circle to Norway, Sweden or Finland for a close-up and personal reindeer experience. Visit a herd owned by Sami (people of Lapland). Or feed reindeer in the wild on a Sami tour from Trømso. 

Brace yourself, though. Your  first up-close reindeer experience may be on your plate.  In Arctic regions, reindeer meat is the age-old means of survival. 

2. On Dasher, on Dancer!

Bob along on a reindeer-led sled. Day trips and overnight experiences from Trømso, Norway or Iso-Syote, Finland include hot drinks, sometimes served in a Lavvu – a traditional Sami tent. Some tours provide super-warm clothing for the Arctic environment, and you may get to feed reindeer.

3. Adopt a reindeer

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre in northern Scotland's Cairngorm National Park is home to a reindeer herd; daily tours head up the mountain to visit, where you can let reindeer nibble from your hand. If you fall in love, you can "adopt" one of your own . But "Parma," Matto" or "Kota" won't come home with you; you'll get a photo of your hoofed pal, plus your money goes for reindeer care.

4. Reindeer races

With speeds up to 45 miles per hour, these guys really fly (well, so to speak). A streaking reindeer with driver sailing along behind is quite a sight. Catch reindeer races in early April in Inari, Finland for their King of Reindeer race. Or head to Norway and catch the Easter Festival race in Kautokeino, or a race in Trømso.

5. Not so fast!  

Norwegian kids have been skiing since they could walk, but we don't recommend hitching up Dancer or Prancer for speed-skiing, even if Santa will let you.

6. Speaking of Santa

Here's a puzzle.  You can see the "real Santa" at Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska. You can also see him in Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland.

He has an office in Rovaniemi and – get this – the whole Santa Claus Village grew up around a cabin built for the 1950 visit of U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt's wife, Eleanor Roosevelt. Was our First Lady having high-level discussions with Santa, urging him to move to a place more visible to children? 

Santa's real whereabouts are puzzling; someone should ask the reindeer.

7. About those flying reindeer. . .

Santa Claus couldn't deliver toys all over the world unless his reindeer could fly. Reindeer running 45 miles an hour seems fast enough for lift-off.  Here's more news suggesting reindeer do take flight to lead Santa's sleigh: a veterinarian visits Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm in Clare, Mich. each year to give all the reindeer a check-up.

Healthy reindeer get a certificate for worldwide travel. Sounds like those reindeer are planning a 'round-the-world trip.

8. Reindeer roadblock

How strange to find reindeer blocking the tunnel to North Cape, Norway—Europe's northernmost point and a desolate spot. Maybe reindeer migrating from North Cape were taking the tunnel as a shortcut south.

9. Shimmering lights

How magical – seeing both reindeer and the Northern Lights. Tours out of Trømso, Norway include both evening and overnight trips with reindeer sleds trotting out to watch the night sky. Finland's Rovaniemi also has reindeer tours seeking Northern Lights.

10. Magic reindeer

Spot a white reindeer such as one seen in Sweden and you're in for good luck, they say. 

How about Rudolph and his magical red nose? Actually, zoologists say many reindeer have reddish noses due to lots of circulation in that area. Apparently Rudolph got an extra dose.

So do reindeer have magical qualities that enable them to fly? Looks like that's for the reader to decide.

About Anne Chalfant

Anne Chalfant is just back from Iceland where she saw Northern Lights but no reindeer. One touch of magic at a time.

Read more about Anne Chalfant here.

Connect with Anne via: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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