Since 26th May 2012, all UK websites need to comply with the EU E-Privacy Directive 2009/136/EC. Cookies are only a small part of this directive, and whilst we are still allowed to use cookies on our website, it must be made clear to our visitors that cookies are being used. A message or warning must be displayed so that the visitor is aware of this.
Accordingly, we display a message to warn any new visitor that the website makes use of cookies, and that it is possible to disable them. This message is displayed until such time as the visitor clicks on the “I understand” button.
How do we use cookies?
This website uses cookies only to record anonymous information about your visit.
We only use cookies to help us continuously improve our website and maintain a pleasant browsing experience for our visitors. Here is a list of cookies used on this website:
- Cookie Policy Acceptance cookie – To record that you have understood the privacy policy so that you will not be asked again on a future visit from the same device
- Session cookie – This is a standard cookie just to remember some information during the course of your visit, specifically to assist with form validation. After you close your browser it should normally be deleted automatically by your browser application
What is a cookie?
A cookie is a small amount of data, often including a unique identifier, sent to the browser of your computer or mobile phone (referred to here as a “device”) from a website’s computer. It is stored on your device’s hard drive. Each website can send its own cookie to your browser if your browser’s preferences allow it. To protect your privacy, your browser only permits a website to access the cookies it has already sent to you, and not the cookies sent to you by other websites. Many websites do this whenever a user visits them to track online traffic flows.
You can set your device’s preferences to accept all cookies, notify you when a cookie is issued, or not receive cookies at all. Selecting the last option means you will not receive certain personalised features, which may result in you being unable to take full advantage of all the website’s features. Each browser is different, so please check the “Help” menu of your browser to learn how to change your cookie preferences.
During the course of any visit to our website, every page you see, along with a cookie, is downloaded to your device. Many websites do this because cookies enable website publishers to do useful things like find out whether your device (and probably you) has visited the website before. On a repeat visit this is done by the website’s computer checking to see, and finding, the cookie left there on the last visit.
How to delete cookies or control them
This site will not use cookies to collect personally identifiable information about you. However, if you wish to restrict or block cookies set by this or any other website, you can do this through your browser settings. The Help function within your browser should tell you how.
Alternatively, you may wish to visit www.aboutcookies.org which contains comprehensive information on how to do this for a wide variety of browsers. You will also find details on how to clear cookies from your computer as well as more general information about cookies. For information on how to do this on your mobile phone’s browser, you will need to refer to your handset manual.