readingwire.co.uk uses cookies and similar technologies to ensure the site functions correctly, to analyse how visitors interact with our content, and to support our commercial operations. This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, which categories we use, how you can manage your consent, and how we retain data. It supplements our Privacy Policy, which provides further detail on how we handle personal information.
What are cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, tablet or smartphone) when you visit a website. They allow the site to remember your actions and preferences over a period of time, so you do not have to re-enter them each time you return. Cookies may be set by the website you are visiting (first-party cookies) or by third-party services embedded in the page (third-party cookies).
Categories of cookies we use
We group cookies into the following categories based on their purpose. Some cookies are strictly necessary for the operation of the site; others are non-essential and require your consent before being placed.
Essential cookies
These cookies are required for the basic functionality of readingwire.co.uk, such as enabling secure log-in, remembering your cookie consent preferences, and maintaining session stability. The site cannot function properly without them. Essential cookies do not require your prior consent.
Analytics cookies
We use analytics cookies to collect aggregated, anonymised data about how visitors use our site — for example, which pages are most frequently read, how long users stay, and what links they follow. This information helps us improve our editorial content and user experience. These cookies are non-essential and are only placed with your consent.
Advertising and affiliate tracking cookies
Advertising cookies help us deliver relevant advertisements and measure the effectiveness of our campaigns. Affiliate tracking cookies allow us to earn a small commission when you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase from a partner retailer. These cookies are non-essential and are only placed with your consent. All affiliate links are clearly disclosed in accordance with our Advertising & Affiliate Disclosure.
Embedded media cookies
Our articles may include embedded content from third-party platforms, such as social media feeds (e.g. X, Facebook, Instagram) and video platforms (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo). When you interact with this embedded content, the third-party provider may set its own cookies for purposes including analytics, personalisation and advertising. We do not control these cookies. They are non-essential and are only placed with your consent.
Consent and how to change your preferences
For visitors in the United Kingdom and the European Union, we require your explicit consent before placing any non-essential cookies. When you first visit readingwire.co.uk, you will see a cookie consent banner that allows you to accept or reject each category of non-essential cookies. You can change your preferences at any time by clicking the “Cookie Settings” link in the footer of every page. You may also adjust your browser settings to block or delete cookies, though this may affect the functionality of the site.
Retention
Cookies are retained on your device for varying periods. Session cookies are deleted when you close your browser. Persistent cookies remain for a set duration, typically up to 12 months, after which they are automatically removed. You can delete stored cookies at any time through your browser settings.
Relation to our Privacy Policy
This Cookie Policy should be read alongside our Privacy Policy, which explains how we collect, use and protect your personal data. For more information about our editorial standards and data practices, please see our Editorial Policy and Sources & Standards.
Contact
If you have any questions about this Cookie Policy or wish to exercise your data rights, please contact our privacy team at privacy@readingwire.co.uk. You can also reach us via our Contact page.