This notice explains how Ballantynes collects, uses and protects your personal information when you visit this site. We are the data controller for the purposes of UK data protection law.
The short version
We collect only what you give us directly — through contact forms or messages — and what your browser shares when you visit, such as your IP address and the pages you view. We do not sell or rent your information to anyone. No account is required to read the site, and we store no passwords or payment details.
Data you hand over vs data we observe
When you write to us through the contact page, you provide your email address and the content of your message. When you browse, our server logs record your IP address, browser type, operating system, the pages you visit and the time of each request. These logs help us maintain the site and understand which topics are most read.
We use analytics software to see which pages are visited and where readers come from. This creates aggregated statistics; we do not track individual users across sessions or link browsing patterns to your identity.
Processors and transfers
Our hosting provider stores the site's files and server logs within the European Economic Area. Email sent through the contact form reaches our inbox via a third-party email service. We have agreements with both that require them to handle your data securely and only for the purposes we specify.
No data is transferred outside the UK or EEA without adequate safeguards under the UK General Data Protection Regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018.
Exercising your rights
You have the right to ask what personal data we hold about you, to request a copy, to have it corrected or deleted, and to object to or restrict certain uses. If you have written to us, you may withdraw consent at any time by asking us to delete your message.
To exercise any of these rights, write to [email protected]. We will respond within one month. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office at ico.org.uk.
Retention
Messages sent through the contact form are kept for two years, after which they are deleted unless you have asked a question that remains relevant to site updates or corrections. Server logs are retained for 90 days and then overwritten.
Minors
This site is open to all ages. We do not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under 13, and if you are under 18 we ask that you obtain a parent's or guardian's permission before writing to us.
This is an information site. We do not sell any goods or services.
Frequently asked questions
What personal data does Ballantynes collect?
We collect your email address and message content if you contact us, plus your IP address, browser type and the pages you visit when you browse the site.
Does Ballantynes share my data with third parties?
We share data only with our hosting provider and email service, both bound by contract to use it solely for running the site. We do not sell or rent your information.
How can I request deletion of my data?
Write to [email protected] and ask us to delete your message or any other data we hold. We will act within one month.
Where is my data stored?
All data is stored on servers within the European Economic Area, under UK GDPR safeguards.
How long do you keep my information?
Contact messages are kept for two years; server logs for 90 days. You may request earlier deletion at any time.
Does the site use cookies to track me?
We use analytics software that may set cookies to count visits, but we do not track individual users or link browsing to your identity.
Who do I contact if I have a complaint?
If our response to a data request is unsatisfactory, you may lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office at ico.org.uk.