PRIVACY POLICY – OC HEATON WEBSITE and THE RACE IS ON UNIVERSE
Effective Date: 23 February 2026

1. Who We Are
The Gate and The Race Is On universe are operated by OC Heaton. For any privacy-related enquiries, contact: oc@ocheaton.com.

2. Age Restriction
The Gate is strictly intended for individuals aged 18 years and over. We do not knowingly collect or process personal data from anyone under the age of 18. If we become aware that personal data has been submitted by an individual under 18, we will delete such information promptly. If you believe that a minor has provided personal information, please contact us immediately.

3. Information We Collect
We may collect the following categories of personal information:
– First name
– Email address
– Country of residence
– Reading preferences and genre interests
– Voluntary profile information
– Postal address (only when required for prize fulfilment or purchases)
– Technical data such as IP address, browser type, and device information

4. How We Use Your Information
Your information is used to:
– Provide access to exclusive content
– Personalise communications
– Administer promotions and competitions
– Fulfil physical or digital prizes
– Improve community experience and future offerings
– Comply with legal obligations

5. Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR Where Applicable)
We process personal data based on:
– Your consent
– Contractual necessity (e.g., prize delivery)
– Legitimate interest in developing and maintaining the reader community
– Legal compliance obligations

6. Data Sharing
We do not sell personal data. Information may be shared with trusted service providers solely for email delivery, website hosting, payment processing, or prize fulfilment. All partners are required to protect your data.

7. International Transfers
If you access The Gate from outside the country of operation, your data may be transferred internationally. Appropriate safeguards will be implemented where required.

8. Data Retention
We retain personal information only as long as necessary to provide services or comply with legal requirements. You may request deletion at any time.

9. Your Rights
Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the right to:
– Access your data
– Correct inaccurate information
– Request deletion
– Withdraw consent
– Restrict or object to processing
– Lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority

10. Security
We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect personal data against unauthorised access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction.

11. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Material changes will be communicated through The Gate or via email.

12. Contact
For privacy questions or data requests, contact: oc@ocheaton.com
Mailing Address: Rookwood Publishing, Ground Floor, Radley House, Richardshaw Road, Leeds, LS28 6LE, GB