Privacy and cookie policy

Introduction

1.1 Tees Maritime is committed to protecting the privacy of our website visitors. This policy explains how we handle your personal data.

1.2 Upon your first visit to our website, we will request your consent for our use of cookies as outlined in this policy. By using our website, you consent to our cookie usage.

Collecting Personal Information

2.1 We may collect, store, and use the following types of personal information:

(a) Information about your computer and browsing activity (e.g., IP address, location, browser type, visit duration, page views).

(b) Information you provide when registering on our website, including your email address.

(c) Details provided for email notifications and newsletters (e.g., name, email address).

(d) Information related to event or service purchases (e.g., name, contact details, delivery and payment information).

(e) User-generated content (e.g., reviews, profile details).

(f) Communications with us, including metadata related to these interactions.

(g) Any other information you voluntarily submit.

2.2 If you provide us with personal data of another individual, you must have their consent to share their information with us.

Use of Personal Information

3.1 We use personal information to:

(a) Manage and administer our website and business operations.

(b) Personalise website content and user experience.

(c) Enable access to website services.

(d) Process purchases and deliver goods or services.

(e) Send billing details, invoices, and payment reminders.

(f) Provide necessary non-marketing communications.

(g) Send email notifications upon request.

(h) Provide newsletters and marketing communications (subject to opt-in consent).

(i) Share statistical data with third parties (without personal identification).

(j) Respond to enquiries and complaints.

(k) Ensure website security and prevent fraud.

(l) Verify compliance with website terms and conditions.

3.2 We do not share your personal information with third parties for their direct marketing without your explicit consent.

3.3 If financial transactions are processed through the website, payments will be handled securely by a third-party provider, such as PayPal.

Disclosure of Personal Information

4.1 We may disclose personal information:

(a) To officers, agents, suppliers, or subcontractors as necessary for business purposes.

(b) Where required by law or legal proceedings.

(c) To protect our legal rights, prevent fraud, or reduce credit risk.

(d) To potential business buyers in case of asset transfers.

(e) To any person where court-ordered disclosure applies.

4.2 Except as specified in this policy, we will not provide your personal information to third parties.

International Data Transfers

5.1 Your information may be transferred and processed in locations outside the UK, including countries with different data protection laws.

5.2 Personal data published on our website may be accessible globally.

5.3 By using our website, you agree to these international transfers.

Data Retention

6.1 We will only retain your personal information for as long as necessary.

6.2 Standard data deletion periods include:

(a) New member enquiries: deleted after 12 months.

(b) Lapsed members: deleted after 12 months.

(c) Event attendees: deleted after 6 months.

6.3 We may retain documents for legal, fraud prevention, or risk mitigation purposes.

Security of Personal Information

7.1 We implement reasonable security measures to protect personal data from loss or misuse.

7.2 Data is stored on secure, password-protected servers with firewall protection.

7.3 Financial transactions (if applicable) are secured through encryption technology.

7.4 While we take security precautions, we cannot guarantee complete internet data security.

7.5 Users are responsible for keeping website login details confidential.

Amendments

8.1 This policy may be updated periodically, with changes published on our website.

8.2 You should review this page regularly to stay informed about policy updates.

Your Rights

9.1 You may request access to personal data we hold about you, subject to verification of identity and a processing fee (if applicable).

9.2 We may withhold requested information where permitted by law.

9.3 You can opt out of marketing communications at any time.

Third-Party Websites

10.1 Our website may contain links to external sites. We are not responsible for third-party privacy practices.

Updating Information

11.1 If your personal information needs to be updated, please contact us.

Cookies

12.1 Cookies are small data files stored by your browser to enhance website functionality.

12.2 We use session and persistent cookies to improve website usability and security.

12.3 Google Analytics may track website usage via cookies. See Google’s Privacy Policy for details.

Managing Cookies

13.1 You can adjust browser settings to block or delete cookies:

(a) Internet Explorer: Adjust settings under ‘Internet Options’ → ‘Privacy’.

(b) Firefox: Modify settings under ‘Options’ → ‘Privacy’.

(c) Chrome: Access ‘Settings’ → ‘Advanced’ → ‘Privacy and Security’.

13.2 Blocking cookies may affect website functionality.

Data Protection Registration

14.1 We are registered with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office.

14.2 Our registration number is [Insert Number].

Contact Us

15.1 This website is hosted by LemonTop Creative.

15.2 Our office address: Dinsdale House, Riverside Park Road, Middlesbrough TS2 1UT

15.3 Contact us:

• Post: Use the address above.
• Website: Via our contact form.
• Phone: Listed on our website.
• Email: Listed on our website.

This policy ensures transparency regarding how we handle your data and how you can manage your privacy preferences while using Tees Maritime’s website.