Introduction

Benefits of Cookies

Cookies make browsing easier and more personalised. They can:

• Store settings such as preferred language or location.
• Keep items saved in a shopping cart while you continue browsing.
• Provide anonymous statistics that help us improve site content.
• Support essential security and performance features.

Without cookies, many online services would not operate as smoothly.

How Cookies Are Used

On our website, cookies are applied for two main reasons:

• 1. Functionality – to ensure pages load correctly, forms submit properly, and your session is remembered while you navigate.
• 2. Analytics – to track how visitors use the site so we can identify which pages are helpful and which may need adjustments.

These files are temporary and, in most cases, are automatically deleted once your browser is closed.

Types of Data Collected

Cookies may record details such as:

• The search engine or keyword used to find the site.
• The pages you visit and how long you stay.
• The browser and device type used.
• The approximate location of your visit (by country).

This information is processed anonymously. It is used for statistical reporting only and cannot identify you as an individual.

Google Analytics

We use Google Analytics, a service provided by Google LLC, to help us understand how visitors interact with the website. Google Analytics uses cookies to generate reports about site traffic and usage patterns.

To protect your privacy, we use IP anonymisation where available. This means that only a shortened version of your IP address is processed within the European Union or the European Economic Area before data is sent to Google servers in the United States.

Google uses this information solely on our behalf to analyse website activity and provide related services. The anonymised IP address transmitted through Google Analytics is not combined with any other data held by Google.

If you prefer, you can prevent Google Analytics from collecting information by installing a browser add-on available here: Google Analytics Opt-out Tool.

Managing Cookies in Your Browser

You have full control over whether cookies are stored on your device. Most browsers allow you to:

• Accept all cookies.
• Reject all cookies.
• Be notified when a cookie is placed.
• Delete cookies already saved.

Disabling cookies may limit certain website functions, but you can still use the site with reduced features.

Guides for managing cookies in popular browsers are available through the links below:

• Google Chrome
• Mozilla Firefox
• Microsoft Edge
• Apple Safari
• Opera

Aftercare: Adjusting Preferences

If you wish to change your cookie settings after visiting our website, you can update them at any time in your browser’s privacy or security menu. Clearing your browser history will also remove any previously stored cookies.

Who Should Use Cookie Settings

Anyone concerned about data privacy or wishing to customise their browsing experience can adjust cookie settings. For example:

• Parents managing children’s access.
• Businesses using shared computers.
• Individuals who prefer not to have personalised adverts.

Alternatives to Cookies

If you disable cookies, some site features may no longer work as intended. Alternatives include:

• Using “private browsing” or “incognito” mode, which limits cookie storage.
• Installing privacy-focused browser extensions.
• Manually clearing cookies after each browsing session.

These options provide additional control, though they may reduce convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do cookies contain viruses?

  No. Cookies are simple text files and cannot carry malware.

• Will rejecting cookies stop me from using the website?

  You will still be able to access most pages, but some functions such as remembering login details or shopping baskets may not work.

• Are cookies the same as web tracking?

  Cookies are one tool used for tracking, but not the only one. We use them only for anonymous analytics and essential functions.

• Can cookies identify me personally?

  No. The cookies we use do not store personal names, addresses, or sensitive information.

• How often is this policy updated?

  We review and update our cookie policy when necessary to ensure transparency and compliance with privacy regulations.

Cost of Using Cookies

There is no financial cost to you. However, the “cost” may be in terms of reduced privacy if you allow all cookies. By managing settings, you can balance convenience with data protection.