Cookies Policy

What cookies are

Cookies are small text files stored by your browser on your device when you visit a website. They hold simple information such as a session identifier, a preference flag, or a token that helps the site remember settings between page loads.

Why cookies are used

Cookies help the site operate smoothly and make your visits more convenient. Typical uses include keeping you logged in, remembering language or display choices, improving load performance, and collecting non-identifying data to improve the platform.

Essential cookies

Essential cookies are required for basic site functions. They support core features like login sessions, shopping baskets, form submissions, and secure areas of the site. Disabling these may prevent some parts of the service from working.

Session cookies

Session cookies exist only for the duration of your browsing session and are removed when you close the browser. They are used to maintain continuity between pages and to store temporary information needed while you navigate the site.

Persistent cookies

Persistent cookies remain on your device after the browser is closed and are used to remember preferences and settings across visits. They have an expiry date set by the site or third parties and are automatically removed when that date is reached or when you clear your cookies.

Functional cookies

Functional cookies enable enhanced features such as saved preferences, layout choices, and language settings. They make the interface more consistent with your past visits and can reduce repetitive settings adjustments.

Analytics and performance cookies

Analytics cookies collect aggregated information about how visitors use the site, such as which pages are most viewed and how long pages take to load. This data is used for diagnostics and performance optimisation and is generally presented in combined, non-identifying form.

Preference and language settings

Cookies are commonly used to store language choices, regional settings, and display preferences so the site presents content in a way you previously selected without requiring repeated configuration.

Login and session continuity

To keep you signed in and avoid repeated logins, the platform may set persistent authentication cookies. Short-lived session cookies support the active session and are deleted on logout or when your browser closes, depending on your settings.

Device recognition

Device recognition cookies help the site remember trusted devices and streamline sign-in flows. They can also support basic security checks, such as detecting unusual login patterns, without exposing personal content.

Security-related cookies

Security cookies are used to protect accounts and prevent fraud. They support features like session integrity, CSRF protection, and rate-limiting checks. These cookies do not store your password or financial details in readable form.

Browser storage technologies

In addition to cookies, the site may use modern browser storage such as localStorage, sessionStorage, and IndexedDB for client-side data that improves responsiveness and offline behaviour. These technologies are subject to the same user controls as cookies in your browser.

Third-party integrations

Some content and services are provided by third parties and may set their own cookies when you interact with those features. Examples include analytics providers, payment processors, and content delivery services. Third-party cookies are governed by the respective providers' policies.

Marketing and communication preferences

Marketing cookies help tailor promotional messages and show relevant offers. You can control whether marketing cookies are enabled via the cookie settings or your account preferences. Opting out will reduce personalised marketing but will not affect core site functions.

Cookie consent management

On your first visit a cookie banner lets you give or refuse consent for non-essential cookies. You can change your choices later through the cookie settings available on the site or within your account privacy options. Essential cookies remain active to keep the site functional.

Browser cookie controls

Your browser provides tools to view, block, or delete cookies. You can configure privacy and site settings to block third-party cookies or disable cookies entirely. Browser settings vary, so consult your browser’s help for step-by-step instructions.

Clearing or disabling cookies

Clearing cookies removes stored preferences and may sign you out of accounts. Disabling cookies can limit functionality, including the ability to stay logged in, save preferences, or complete transactions. If you rely on saved settings, consider selectively disabling non-essential cookies instead of all cookies.

Site functionality impact when cookies are disabled

Without cookies certain features will be affected. You may need to log in more often, lose saved preferences, and encounter degraded performance or broken flows in areas that expect session continuity. The core content may still be viewable, but interactive features may not work as intended.

Technical diagnostics and performance optimisation

Cookies and browser storage support technical diagnostics such as error reporting and load-time measurements. These tools help the team prioritise fixes and optimise page performance for a smoother experience across devices.

Aggregated analytics information

Analytics data is typically aggregated to show usage trends rather than identify individuals. Aggregated metrics inform decisions about feature improvements, layout changes, and content prioritisation while minimising personal detail in reports.

User experience improvements

Cookies enable smoother navigation, faster page loads, and personalised settings that reduce repetitive actions. They are a practical tool to tailor the site to frequent users while keeping interactions simple for first-time visitors.

Questions and contact

If you have questions or want to request changes to your cookie preferences, contact support at [email protected]. We will respond with guidance on cookie controls and available privacy options.