Jones Myers highly experienced family lawyer, Sarah Barr-Young, has been appointed as a board member to help drive the vision and objectives of the Harrogate Business Improvement District (BID).

Sarah, who heads Jones Myers Financial Remedies Department in the firm’s Harrogate office, joins a voluntary Board of influential directors overseeing the delivery of BID’s plan to support, safeguard and improve the town centre for businesses, visitors and residents.

Born in Harrogate, Sarah has extensive expertise in family law matters including complex, high net worth financial disputes, business property portfolios, pensions on divorce and resolving disputes out of court through negotiation.

She said: “I am honoured to be instrumental in BID’s strategy to maximise the potential of Harrogate as a dynamic destination and empower local businesses to tackle local issues.

“My role at Jones Myers entails meeting and working with wide-ranging local companies and I’m looking forward to adding value to BID’s goals during the organisation’s second term.”

Over the past 12 months BID has clocked up a  raft of successful achievements. They include its rapid response Street Rangers further enhancing the town’s visual appearance, forging key partnerships with police, councils and voluntary organisations – and recruiting a Business Crime Officer.

Funding has also been secured for ongoing investment in tackling anti-social behaviour and a new IT system that tracks spend data across the BID area.

Jason Maxwell, CEO of Harrogate BID, commented: “We warmly welcome Sarah to Harrogate BID in a formative year as we further strengthen our role as a voice for town centre businesses and promote key regional events.

“Sarah’s extensive experience of working with local companies, coupled with her dedication  to our long-term strategic vision for the town centre, complement BID’s ethos and values. We look forward to Sarah’s contribution as we accelerate our vision throughout 2026 and beyond.”

Andrew Fox, Jones Myers director and in-house barrister, added: “As a long-standing Harrogate employer committed to local businesses and the community, Jones Myers is delighted to forge long-standing partnerships.

“It is tremendous that Sarah is joining the BID board and we wish Harrogate BID continued success as it continues to go from strength to strength.”   

To find out more about Harrogate BID, a not-for-profit organisation launched on January 1^st 2019, visit https://harrogatebid.co.uk/

For queries on divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

Sarah Barr-Young is pictured third from left back row with Jason Maxwell, CEO of Harrogate BID, fourth left from back row, and fellow board members     

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Niche family law firm, Jones Myers, is enhancing comfort and wellbeing for cancer patients with a vital Airglove unit which warms and raises veins in patients’ arms.  

Patients at the Sir Robert Ogden MacMillan Centre in Harrogate will benefit from the air warming system which also reduces discomfort and stress for the nursing staff treating them.

Jones Myers has donated the device in memory of the firm’s late colleague, Neil Dring, a highly regarded, compassionate, and committed family lawyer who was a patient at the Centre.      

Sarah Barr-Young,  head of Jones Myers Financial Remedies Department in Harrogate who previously worked with Neil, said: “Neil was one in a million who cared enormously for his clients and his colleagues and inspired trust. He would be delighted to know that the Airglove air-warming machine will further improve the quality of treatment for cancer patients.” 

Part of the Harrogate and District Foundation NHS Trust, the facility diagnoses and treats wide-ranging cancers, offering a variety of care and complementary therapies.

Jackie Rowbottom, Macmillan Integrated Personalised Care Programme Lead (Harrogate and Rural District), is among the team who remember Neil with fondness.

Said Jackie: “I met Neil on the Unit while he was having treatment and, even under such difficult circumstances, he was an incredibly kind and nice man. I wish I could have known him better. We are so grateful for this very generous donation of the Airglove in his memory, thank you to everyone at Jones Myers”.

Laura Hodgkinson, a Sister on the chemotherapy unit, said the delivery of the machine is timely and extremely welcome: “We are thrilled to have the Airglove which can gently and safely warm someone’s arm and hand, making it easier to access their veins to give cancer treatments and other medications. This can save a lot of time for our staff, allows them to deliver the best level of care, and most importantly, makes the patient’s experience much easier and less stressful and uncomfortable.”

Yvonne Campbell, Head of Charity for Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, commented: “We are incredibly grateful to Jones Myers for their generous support in memory of their colleague, Neil Dring. It was a very generous way to honour their beloved colleague, and we sincerely appreciate the firm’s commitment to supporting our services. The Airglove unit will make a real difference to patients at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust.”

For more information on services provided by Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Centre, visit here

For queries on any aspect of  family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet 01904 @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th^h among the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026.

Picutred left to right : Sarah Barr-Young, Jackie Rowbottom, Laura Hodgkinson, Gemma Cook, Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust

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By Sarah Barr-Young, Head of Jones Myers Financial Remedies Department in Harrogate

Over 15 per cent of the UK population – which equates to one in seven people – are neurodivergent, which means their brains work in different ways.

Neurodivergency is not a medical condition or a disorder, but a term to describe differences in how the brain is wired. Neurodivergent people have alternative thinking styles which include dyslexia, developmental co-ordination disorder (dyspraxia), dyscalculia (which affects mathematical skills) , autism, Tourette’s and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). 

How does neurodivergency affect relationship breakdown?

Divorce and separation is emotionally difficult for any separating couple. For neurodivergent people, who see the world differently, the challenges are even harder to navigate. Their different communication styles can lead to misunderstandings in communication, triggering higher levels of anxiety, rejection and depression.

Many tend to feel paralyzed and overwhelmed at the prospect of dealing with the unknown and working with strangers – whether they be family lawyers, mediators or counsellors -through the divorce process.

Which specific areas of divorce do neurodivergent people find particularly difficult? 

Many struggle with working through the process of financial disclosure, which requires a complete and accurate account of their financial situation including assets, income and debts.

Concerns separating couples face over finances and living accommodation after a break up can be particularly acute for neurodivergent people, especially parents who are worried how divorce will affect their relationship with their children.     

How does divorce impact on neurodivergent children?

Children of all ages are susceptible to the anxieties of divorce and separation which can be made worse by events such as birthdays, school holidays, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day.     

For neurodivergent children, the turmoil of disruptive daily patterns and splitting their time between two households can heighten a sense of insecurity and result in withdrawal.

What do family lawyers need to do differently to help neurodivergent clients?

It is a given that family lawyers have a duty to understand their clients’ needs in every aspect of family law.  

When guiding and advising neurodivergent clients it is vital that family lawyers can establish whether a client is neurodivergent. Understanding the complexities, nuances and triggers associated with neurodivergency is essential to effective communication with between a lawyer and a neurodivergent client to enable them together to achieve an outcome that meets their particular needs. Identifying with neurodivergency also enables family lawyers to signpost clients to other relevant professionals who can guide them.  

While The Family Justice Council (FJC), a body which monitors the effectiveness of the Family Justice  System, says a more inclusive system which meets the needs of neurodivergence is needed, there is still a long way to go in achieving this. 

Sir Andrew McFarlane, President of the Family Division, rightly says that failure to recognise and accommodate neurodivergence results in parties to court proceedings, witnesses, and children being unable to participate fully in court cases.  A proper understanding of neurodivergence would lead to better participation and more effective justice.

Like all our clients, neurodivergent clients deserve the best possible support and understanding. As a family lawyer I fervently hope that we can improve our ability to understand and guide them by collaborating and adopting best practice in this critical and sensitive area.

For queries on divorce, separation or any aspect of family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 01904 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce.

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026.

Image courtesy of Peter Burdon, Unsplash

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Jones Myers has helped to boost the festive spirit for disabled Artmakers at Henshaws which enhances the quality of life for over 8,000 service users with sight loss and wide-ranging disabilities.

The firm’s deep-rooted ethos of giving back to its local communities has entailed its family lawyers purchase and wrap an assortment of children’s presents for the charity’s forthcoming Christmas Fair.

Monies raised from the vibrant event at Henshaws’ Arts & Crafts centre will go towards valuable materials to help the centre’s talented Artmakers achieve their potential.  

Kate Banerjee, Jones Myers Partner and Head of the Children’s Department, said: “Our Harrogate team loved wrapping the presents designed for children aged three to nine – it Is always a pleasure to support Henshaws’ wide-ranging initiatives and to know that we are helping to make a difference.

“The charity’s commitment and support for its service users, including those with profound and multiple learning and physical difficulties, is truly inspirational. “

The Christmas Fair, a fun-packed, family event, features stalls showcasing Artmakers handmade gifts. Activities and highlights include Christmas cookie decorating, wreath-making workshop, festive food and drink – and a special visit from Santa and Mrs Claus who will distribute the presents.

Flora Simpson, Henshaws Senior Philanthropy Manager, said: “We are extremely appreciative of the valuable support from Jones Myers and our fellow business partners. As a charity, Henshaws relies heavily on fundraising donations and gifts-in kind to help us achieve our ambitious goals. We welcome everyone to join us this Saturday and immerse themselves in the seasonal spirit! ”

In recent years Jones Myers initiatives to help Henshaws service users achieve a fulfilling life have included a Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, supporting Christmas Fairs, and fundraising for  Henshaws Beer Festival.

For more information about Henshaws Christmas Fair which takes place on Saturday, November 29, between midday and 5pm, visit this link Twitter @Henshaws Facebook/Henshaws.

Jones Myers, which has headquarters in Leeds and offices in York city centre and Harrogate town centre, has retained its top tier ranking in esteemed legal guides for over three decades.   

For information on any aspect of family law, call Leeds 0113 246 0055, Harrogate 01423 276104, or York 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked fourth among the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2025.

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Multi award-winning family law firm, Jones Myers, has received a Highly Commended accolade for Outstanding Client Care.

The practice’s commitment to consistently delivering excellence in family law has been acknowledged by judges at The Modern Law Private Client Awards 2025 held in Liverpool.

In the Outstanding Client Care category for family law firms with over 26 employees, judges acknowledged how client care lies at the heart of the firm’s ethos.

The award was also based on how Jones Myers innovates to improve and maintain client care, embraces digital technologies – and meets customer expectations.

Richard Peaker, Jones Myers Managing Partner, said: “This recognition reflects the care and commitment of our teams across Leeds, Harrogate and York who consistently strive to excel in the calibre of client care they deliver. We are proud to again be acknowledged as among the best family lawyers in the country.”

Jones Myers dedication to client care is also reflected in the firm’s standing in the top five per cent of UK law practices which deliver family law services.

The ranking by Review Solicitors, an independent legal review site, also highlights how Jones Myers outperforms its peers nationwide and awards the practice a consistent ‘Excellent’ rating.

Renowned for attracting the best family lawyers who are leaders in their field, Jones Myers has recently marked further team expansion across York and Harrogate.

A series of new appointments include Sarah Barr-Young, a named Legal 500 ‘Key’ Lawyer and Chambers ‘Notable Practitioner’, who heads the Financial Remedies Department in Harrogate.  

With headquarters in Leeds, Jones Myers, which has its own in-house counsel, has retained its top tier rankings in the Legal 500 and Chambers UK guides for over three decades.

For queries on any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at Leeds 0113 246 0055, Harrogate 01423 276104, or York 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5^th in the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2025.

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Jones Myers paralegal, Lisa Stephenson, has helped to raise over £58k for the Great North Air Ambulance in the 2024 Great North Run.

Lisa was among 60,000 runners to complete the world’s largest half marathon which sets off in Newcastle and ends along the bracing seafront in South Shields.

After being rained on before starting the challenge, an aching and elated Lisa achieved a time of two hours, twenty seven minutes and twenty seconds.

This was Lisa’s second best time in her fourth Great North Run – only five minutes off her best time in 2012 and despite undergoing physiotherapy sessions on her knees.  

The Great North Air Ambulance provides critical care services by air and road across the North East, Cumbria, North Yorkshire and the Isle of Man.

Said Lisa: “An enormous ‘thank you’ to my family, friends, and colleagues at Jones Myers for their well wishes and support for this amazing charity which rescues hundreds of severely ill and injured patients every year.

“Equipped with its own pioneering, pre-hospital care, the charity’s ambulances and Rapid Response Vehicles operate a round the clock service across the North East and North Yorkshire, They receive no government funding to provide this critical care and are entirely financed by the public’s generosity.”

In 2012, 2017 and 2023 Lisa took part in the iconic half marathon to help the MS Society, a campaigning community which funds world-leading research and supports those living with multiple sclerosis.   

The commitment of Jones Myers niche family law firm and its teams to give back to its local communities includes an ongoing partnership with Henshaws which boosts the quality of life for over 8,000 service users with sight loss and wide-ranging disabilities.

To support Lisa’s fundraising, see GREAT NORTH AIR AMBULANCE: Lisa’s page (enthuse.com). For more information on the charity, visit https://www.greatnorthairambulance.co.uk/

For queries on any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at Leeds 0113 246 0055, Harrogate 01423 276104, or York 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked in the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2024

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By Nicki Mitchell, Jones Myers Family Law Mediator and Child Inclusive Mediator – as featured in The Divorce Magazine

I welcome the news that The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is to investigate claims of people being misled about the process and prices of divorces and wills. 

The enquiry into the growing number of online services – many of which are unregulated and include  those offering divorce – comes after a raft of complaints from consumers who were unclear about what help they would receive -and exactly what they were paying for.

Their grievances included ‘inadequate quality’ with incorrect forms being used and papers being sent to court late.

Delivering a quality service and being open about the costs and level of support involved is always vital, particularly in these sensitive and often stressful areas.    

When they see the word “divorce,” most couples understand that to mean not only the process of dissolving the marriage or civil partnership – but getting a financial settlement and resolving any issues around children too. 

My experience is that the fixed fee quoted online by some organisations just brings the relationship to a formal legal end – something which divorcing couples can do relatively easily themselves online. This process does not take much time and the only cost involved is the £593 court fee.

When working with established family lawyers like us, aside from the court fee, there is often a minimal or even no charge for dealing with the online divorce process when we are instructed to advise on the financial implications. 

Some firms also quote a fee for drafting an order to formalise an agreed financial settlement which can be helpful in some cases. However, most separating couples have no real idea what their financial options on divorce are. 

There is a common perception/misconception that everything is always split down the middle, but this is not necessarily the case. 

The law requires there to be a settlement which is “fair in all the circumstances,” with first consideration being given to the needs of any children. A 50:50 split is not always “fair.” 

The only way to understand what a court is likely to consider acceptable in your particular circumstances is to take advice from an experienced family lawyer. 

There is a cost but, in most cases, you get what you pay for – a quality service from qualified family lawyers whose firms are regulated and transparent. 

As part of the CMA investigation, consumers and others who would like to contact the CMA about their experiences with online services are asked to contact the watchdog by September 4 on this website.

If the watchdog’s investigation determines that organisations have violated consumer laws, those found wanting could be subject to a court order.

I sincerely hope the outcome will act as a deterrent to prevent more people falling prey at a time when they are at their lowest and most vulnerable.   

For progressing divorces online, the Government website is a helpful source of advice.

For queries on divorce or any aspect of family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds), 01423 276104 (Harrogate) or 01904 202550 (York). Visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 10^th in the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2023.

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A new dedicated telephone line seeking feedback from children and young people involved in family court proceedings is a much needed and welcome development.

The ‘Hear to Listen’ service has been launched by Cafcass, the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service, England’s biggest employer of qualified social workers.

Representing children in family court cases in England, Cafcass independently advises family courts on children’s best interests to ensure their voices are heard in the family justice system.

Children can contact the new facility during or after their proceedings. They can comment and feedback on how Cafcass has listened to them and understood what life is like for them during the proceedings.

Putting children’s best interests first in relationship breakdowns and ensuring they have a voice goes to the heart of Jones Myers’ ethos and our sustained commitment to deliver excellence.

Our acclaimed Children’s Department, acknowledged as “particularly famed for its ability to handle complicated children cases” (Legal 500 guide), has extensive expertise in children law across Private and Public Law.  

Our specialisms include residence, contact, relocation, international child abduction, adoption, and child protection – which requires balancing parents’ rights while ensuring children are protected from significant harm.

As well as acting for parents and grandparents, we also represent children, through their court appointed Children’s Guardians allocated by Cafcass. If the child is of a significant age and maturity, then we also represent the child separately.

Jones Myers Partner, Anthony Parrish, said: This telephone line is a major step forward in ensuring that children have felt listened to by the courts and the various professionals involved in court proceedings concerning them. 

“It has to be remembered that the main ethos of the Children Act 1989 is the children’s welfare is paramount and this allows children an increased voice in proceedings. It will be invaluable in improving the already excellent service that Cafcass provide children in proceedings.

“It is my experience that in proceedings, children very much value the ability to express their views on what is happening to them either directly to their Children’s Guardian or to their solicitor representing them. This new initiative adds an extra layer to this inclusivity.”

Jacky Tiotto, Chief Executive of Cafcass which supports over 140,000 children a year, says obtaining feedback from children is a priority.

“We are working harder to develop as many opportunities as we can to enable children to explain to us what makes the most positive difference to them through their court proceedings.

“Our responsibilities include, understanding what life is like for them, whether they are safe, and what is in their best future interests. Our analysis of what they and their families say to us informs our recommendations to the family court.

“Children’s feedback about how well we do this and what needs to improve offers us an unmissable chance to develop the best help and support we can offer.”
The ‘Hear to Listen’ call line is contactable on 0330 403 0300. It is open 9am – 5pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am – 4:30pm on Fridays.
For queries on children law or family law, call us on 0113 246 0055 (Leeds), 01423 276104 (Harrogate), or 01904 202550 (York). Visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce Jones Myers blog is ranked 9^th in the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2022

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Jones Myers is backing a local campaign on Just Giving to support the Oxygen for India Emergency Appeal.

The campaign will boost the Appeal’s mission to help the plight of millions of people in India who are suffering the devastating impact of COVID-19.

Our partner, Kate Banerjee, and her husband, Paul Banerjee, are seeking to raise a minimum of £8,300 for the campaign spearheaded by the British Asian Trust.

The inspirational charity – which tackles poverty across South Asia to help people transform their lives – was set up in 2007 by the Prince of Wales and a group of British Asian business leaders, has set up an Emergency Appeal, Oxygen for India.

Since the appeal was launched over 2.5 million people have been newly diagnosed with COVID-19 and daily cases have exceeded 400,000 as infections and deaths continue to hit new records every two or three days.

At the weekend The British Asian trust organised the delivery of oxygen concentrators to India, these machines, which are alternate devices to oxygen cylinders, can continually recycle oxygen from the air and deliver it to the patient. Their local partner Swasth provides comprehensive support on the ground to ensure the help gets to where it is needed.

The support package devised by the British Asian Trust follows consultation with the Indian and UK governments, advisors and partners. It is designed to complement what industry, government and other charities are doing to help.

The campaign is seeking to purchase 10 life saving high flow oxygen concentrators at a cost of £830 each for the most seriously ill patients along with low flow oxygen concentrators for patients with breathing difficulties and oxygen cylinders for those struggling to breathe.   

Said Kate Banerjee: “A horrifying number of people continue to die daily as India battles a second wave of the virus. We urge everyone to reach out and help to ensure as many oxygen concentrators – which continually recycle oxygen from the air and deliver it to patients – are delivered to where they are desperately needed.

“Enormous thanks to Jones Myers and everyone who has donated so far – please spread word of the campaign to your friends and families.”     ​​​​​​ 

You can support Kate’s Just Giving fundraising appeal by clicking on the link here https://bit.ly/2Rsyik4

More information on the charity’s emergency appeal can be found here Oxygen for India – British Asian Trust 

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Reports that separated couples using the Covid-19 lockdown to prevent their ex from seeing their child could face court action re-enforce how, more than ever, estranged parents need to work together to put their children’s best interests first.

The warning comes from Sir Andrew McFarlane, President of the Family Division, whose clear guidance for contact arrangements during the crisis outlines that children under 18 should continue to visit parents they do not live with – providing both households are healthy and children are not put at risk.

A spirit of mutual cooperation and communication between estranged parents is vital for the wellbeing of their children who may suffer from increased anxiety and uncertainty in the current climate which can affect their behaviour. 

Following lockdown measures and school closures Jones Myers Children’s Department has experienced a surge in enquiries from parents who are concerned about their children visiting their former spouse. 

Partner Kate Banerjee, who heads the renowned Children’s Department, said: “Many parents fear their sons and daughters venturing into an environment which could bring associated health risks.   

“Sustaining an element of trust and keeping communication channels open is of paramount importance and we always recommend separated couples follow government guidelines and make sensible judgement calls regarding their individual situations.”

“Our team are working with parents to mediate an agreement which outlines how child contact arrangements will work during the lockdown – along with any necessary changes in schedules due to illness or self isolation.”

“We can either set up agreements with parents or refer them to a formal mediation process – both ways forward can be conducted remotely. The key benefits are that both parents commit to arrangements that ensure their children spend quality time with both parents.”  

Giving clarity, comfort and peace of mind to both parties, an agreement can be up and running within a week.

Added Kate: “It is also key that parents bear in mind that moving into phase 2 of the lockdown will bring additional challenges for child contact arrangements.

“If, as widely predicted, we will transition to a new norm via staged phases, children will be travelling between parents in different stages – stressing the need for continued communication and collaboration as restrictions are lifted by gradual degrees.”

Jones Myers highly committed Children’s Department and family law teams are working at full strength throughout the epidemic and reacting quickly to provide urgent legal advice whenever needed.

The firm’s remote working capabilities enable the highly experienced lawyers to effectively conduct court hearings and confidential consultations along with mediation and arbitration hearings.  

For queries on children related issues during the Covid-19 crisis, call us at Leeds on 0113 246 0055, Harrogate on 01423 276104, or York on 01904 202550. Visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

Government guidance on child arrangement orders in a crisis can be found here: https://www.judiciary.uk/announcements/coronavirus-crisis-guidance-on-compliance-with-family-court-child-arrangement-orders/

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