David Martin – Privacy Policy
1. Introduction
David Martin is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information responsibly. This Privacy Policy explains what information is collected, how we use it, and your rights under UK data protection law (UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018).
By using my website, you agree to the practices described in this policy.
2. Who Am I
David Martin, Stoke‑on‑Trent, Staffordshire, United Kingdom. Email: davidmartin277@outlook.com
I am the Director and Chief Executive of Mercian Heritage Research and North Staffordshire Heritage, two non‑profit heritage research organisations.
3. Information I Collect
I may collect the following types of information:
a. Information you provide directly
- Contact details when you email me
- Information submitted through forms (e.g., enquiries, contributions)
- Comments you leave on articles or posts
b. Automatically collected information
When you visit my website, WordPress.com may automatically collect:
- IP address
- Browser type
- Device information
- Pages visited
- Cookies used for basic site functionality
This information helps me understand how visitors use my site.
c. Media uploads
If you submit images or documents to my site, they may contain embedded location data (EXIF). I recommend removing this data before sending files.
4. How I Use Your Information
I use personal information only for the following purposes:
- Responding to enquiries
- Managing contributions or submissions
- Improving my website and content
- Maintaining security and preventing misuse
- Fulfilling legal obligations
I do not use your information for marketing, profiling, or advertising.
5. Sharing Your Information
I do not sell or share your personal information with third parties.
However, your data may be processed by:
- WordPress.com / Automattic, who host our website
- Email service providers, when you contact us
These organisations act as data processors under UK GDPR.
I will only share information if required by law.
6. Cookies
Our website uses cookies provided by WordPress.com to support basic functionality such as:
- remembering preferences
- enabling comments
- analysing site traffic
You can control or delete cookies through your browser settings.
7. Data Storage and Security
Your information is stored securely through WordPress.com’s hosting platform. I take reasonable steps to ensure your data is protected from unauthorised access, loss, or misuse.
I retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes described in this policy.
8. Your Rights
Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:
- Access the personal data I hold about you
- Request correction of inaccurate information
- Request deletion of your data
- Object to or restrict processing
- Withdraw consent (where applicable)
To exercise these rights, contact me at: davidmartin277@outlook.com
9. Links to External Websites
My website may contain links to external sites. I am not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those websites.
10. Changes to This Policy
I may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The latest version will always be available on our website.
11. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your data, please contact:
David Martin Email: davidmartin277@outlook.com