Privacy Policy

Last updated: April 2026

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This website (iainralston.com) is operated by Iain Ralston. I am committed to protecting and respecting your privacy. This policy explains what personal data I collect, how I use it, and your rights under UK and EU data protection laws (including UK GDPR).

 

1. What information I collect

I may collect and process the following personal data:

• Contact information (such as your name and email address) when you:

  • subscribe to updates or newsletters

  • contact me through the website or directly via email

• Technical data, including:

  • IP address

  • browser type

  • pages visited

This information is collected through standard website analytics and cookies.

 

2. How your information is used

I use your data only for the following purposes:

• To send you updates, sneak peeks, and news about my writing

• To respond to messages or enquiries

• To improve the website and understand how visitors use it

I will never sell or rent your personal data to third parties.

 

3. Lawful basis for processing

Under UK GDPR, I rely on:

• Consent – when you subscribe to emails or provide your details

• Legitimate interests – to maintain and improve the website

You can withdraw your consent at any time.

 

4. Sharing your data

Your data will only be shared where necessary:

• With service providers that help run the website (such as hosting or analytics tools)

• With Bookvault, if you choose to purchase a book directly, so they can print and deliver your order

No other third parties will receive your personal data unless required by law.

 

5. Cookies

This website uses cookies to:

• ensure the site functions properly

• analyse visitor behaviour

You can control or disable cookies through your browser settings.

 

6. How long your data is kept

• Email subscription data is kept until you unsubscribe

• Contact form messages may be retained for administrative purposes

• Technical data is retained for analytics purposes for a limited time

 

7. Your rights

You have the right to:

• Access the personal data I hold about you

• Request correction of inaccurate data

• Request deletion of your data

• Withdraw consent at any time

• Lodge a complaint with a data protection authority (such as the UK Information Commissioner’s Office)

 

8. Data security

I take reasonable steps to protect your personal data, but no method of transmission over the internet is completely secure.

 

9. Contact

If you have any questions about this privacy policy or your data, you can contact me at:

Email: iain@iainralston.com

 

10. Changes to this policy

This policy may be updated from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page.

 

In summary: your data is used only to communicate with you and provide services you request. It is not sold or misused.