This page explains what cookies are, how they affect your browsing experience, how we use cookies, and how to disable them should that be your preference. This cookies policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on 19th February 2019. 

What is a cookie?

A cookie is a small text file which is downloaded on to your computer when you visit a site for the first time. They contain information such as the site name and a unique user ID, which enables the site to identify whether you are a new user or a returning one next time you visit. Generally, cookies are beneficial, and are designed to give you a smooth user experience. 

Some cookies are essential cookies. If you disable these, the website may not work.

There are also non-essential cookies. These track usage of the site – such as how many people are new or returning visitors to the site, and what part of the world they are from. 

How are cookies used

Cookies retain user preferences, store information, and provide anonymized tracking data to applications such as Google Analytics. This is a site which allows me to see things like how many people are visiting my site, which articles are most popular, and the ratio of new readers to returning readers. 

How to disable cookies

As a rule, cookies will make your experience online better. However, if your preference is to disable all cookies on this site and on others, you can do this by disabling cookies in your browser. This will disable all essential and non-essential cookies, which may stop my site from working. 

To disable cookies in Safari, go to Safari, click on Preferences, choose the Privacy tab and select ‘block all cookies’. 

For other browsers, take a look at All About Cookies which offers guidance for all modern browsers.

If you would prefer to disable just the non-essential cookies, then simply select ‘Disable third party, non-functional cookies’ in the cookie notice at the bottom of this website.