A cookie is a very small text file placed on an internet user’s hard drive. It is generated by a web page server, which is basically the computer that operates a website. The information the cookie contains is set by the server and it can be used by that server whenever the user visits the site. A cookie can be thought of as an internet user’s identification card, which tell a website when the user has returned. See the About Cookies website.
Last updated: April 2026
- Somerset Environmental Records Centre (SERC), a not-for-profit organisation. We do not sell products or accept payments on this website. This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, how we use them on our site, and how you can manage them.
- What are cookies?
Cookies are small text files that websites place on your device when you visit. They help us remember information about your visit and improve your browsing experience. - How we use cookies
We use cookies for a few key purposes:
- Essential cookies: These cookies keep the website running smoothly (for example, enabling navigation and access to secure areas). You cannot turn these off without affecting the site’s functionality.
- Analytics cookies: We use these cookies to see how visitors use our site (such as which pages they visit and how long they stay). This helps us improve content and usability. We only collect anonymous data and do not identify individual users.
- Preference cookies: These cookies remember your settings or preferences (like language or display options).
We do not use cookies to process payments, sell products, or show targeted ads.
- Types of cookies you may encounter
- Session cookies: These last only while you keep your browser open.
- Persistent cookies: These stay on your device for a set time or until you delete them.
- First-party cookies: We set these cookies directly on our website.
- Third-party cookies: External services we use (like analytics or embedded content) may set these cookies. They have their own privacy and cookie policies.
- Managing cookies
You can control cookies through your browser settings—block, delete, or get warnings about cookies. If you block or delete cookies, some parts of the site may not work properly.
To opt out of analytics cookies, you can use tools or settings provided by the analytics service.
- Embedded content
Our pages may include embedded content such as videos or maps. These third-party sites may set cookies, and we do not control their practices. - Changes to this policy
We may update this Cookie Policy occasionally. We will post any changes here with a new “Last updated” date.