What cookies are
Cookies are small text files placed on a device when a website is opened in a browser. They store limited information that a browser sends back on later visits, allowing a site to recognise a returning device, remember settings, and measure general activity over time. Most cookies hold a short identifier rather than personal details, and they cannot run programs, install software, or carry viruses. Some are removed when the browser closes, while others remain for a set period until they expire or are cleared manually.
Types of cookies used
Cookies on this portal fall into four broad categories, each serving a distinct purpose:
- Essential cookies keep the website secure and functional, supporting navigation, page loading, and basic preferences. Without them, parts of the site may not display correctly.
- Analytics cookies collect anonymised data about visits, such as which pages are opened and how long they are viewed. This information helps identify popular content and technical issues.
- Functional cookies remember choices such as language or display settings so that preferences do not need to be set again on each visit.
- Marketing cookies may record general interaction with content to gauge relevance. This portal does not sell products or run gambling promotions, so any such cookies are limited and non-intrusive.
Why cookies are used
The main purpose of these cookies is to maintain a stable, usable website and to improve the quality of published reviews. Analytics data shows which guides are most useful and where loading or layout problems occur, which supports ongoing refinement of the content. No cookie is used to build detailed personal profiles, and information gathered is processed in a controlled, anonymised manner wherever possible. Data handling follows recognised UK data protection standards.
How to manage cookies in your browser
Visitors can accept, block, or delete cookies at any time through their browser settings. Disabling certain cookies may affect how some features behave, including saved preferences and parts of the navigation.
Common browsers provide controls in their settings menus. In Chrome, cookie options are found under Settings, then Privacy and security, then Cookies and other site data. In Firefox, they sit under Settings, then Privacy and Security, in the Cookies and Site Data section. In Safari, preferences are managed under Settings, then Privacy, where cookies can be blocked or removed. Each browser also allows stored cookies to be cleared and future behaviour to be set in advance.
Consent and withdrawal
When the website is first opened, a notice describes the use of cookies and requests consent where it is required. Essential cookies needed for the site to function are applied automatically, as permitted under data protection rules. Consent for non-essential categories, such as analytics, functional, and marketing cookies, can be given or declined freely.
Consent can be withdrawn at any time by adjusting browser settings or by clearing existing cookies as described above. Withdrawing consent does not affect the lawfulness of processing carried out before the change. Reviewing these settings periodically helps ensure they continue to match personal privacy expectations.
Updates and contact
This cookie policy takes effect from the date it is published on the site and may be revised from time to time to reflect changes in legal requirements or website functionality. Any updates are posted on this page and apply immediately upon publication, so periodic review is advisable.
Questions, concerns, or requests relating to this policy can be sent by email to [email protected].
