Team

Sarah Arthur

In 2004 Sarah started as a Groom on the yard, she instantly felt a huge sense of commitment to HAPPA. The core objectives of the Charity were close to her heart due to many years of equestrianism and interest in all types of horsemanship. Through hard work, mentoring and personal development Sarah has progressed through the Organisation and is now the Charity’s Chief Officer. Her phenomenal journey throughout her many job roles at Shores Hey Farm has been enriched by gaining management and leadership qualifications along the way. There is nothing that she doesn’t know about the Charity, her experience within the Organisation means that she has a good operational knowledge of all areas, allowing her to lead and progress the Organisation, with the ability to empower others to share her passion.

“I was delighted to be given this opportunity by the Board of Trustees. I am fortunate in having such a dynamic team of specialists within the workforce, all with the drive and enthusiasm to ensure the Charity succeeds well into the future.”

Suzanne Bartlett

Suzanne has worked for the Charity since 2012 and has progressed to taking on added responsibilities over the years. Now Senior Executive Assistant her role has evolved and she is responsible for HR management and ensuring the smooth running of the offices at Shores Hey Farm including IT support. Her main duty is to assist the Chief Officer by providing confidential support and proficient management of work diaries. Suzanne is passionate about the success of the Charity and a key member of the Team.

“HAPPA is a charity close to my heart which will see many changes in the years to come. I like to get involved with events at the Centre and am not adverse to mucking in when needed. I particularly like transforming into the yard mascot and enjoy seeing the fun and laughter this brings, it is nice to be able to have variety in your working day. Every day is different in my role which can be challenging yet exciting.”

Carol Chidley

Carol is HAPPA’s Legacy and Finance Manager, dealing with all the financial aspects of the charity.

Her previous background in accounting, contracts and administration means she brings a wealth of knowledge to the role.

“I have had to develop new systems and procedures to meet the demands of our increased activities, and have fortunately been joined by Finance Assistant Kerry Shaw who has helped to ease my increasing workload. I have recently taken over responsibility for the Charity’s Legacy portfolio. Thanks to the generosity of legacy benefactors we have been able to embark on projects such as the development of the site in 2014/15, but also to continue providing the very best in equine welfare however small or big a legacy that is bequeathed. HAPPA receive no external government funding and are 80% reliant on legacies for their continued existence. So it’s with a little trepidation, but a lot of excitement, that I take on this new challenge.”

Philip Bradley

Philip is HAPPA’s Digital Administrator. He is responsible for the administration of HAPPA’s online presence. This includes the management of digital media, including website content, social media and online fundraising. Philip has previously worked for the BBC, Towneley Hall, Nelson and Colne College and Burnley College. The skills and experiences gained from these previous roles will help Philip to ensure great quality HAPPA online updates for everyone.

Philip holds a  BA Hons: Integrated Media and a Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector.

Philip is also a wood turner, tutor, product developer and prop maker in his spare time.

“Working for HAPPA is brilliant! I can put my skills and experiences to use and see the positive impact of my work as it happens.”

Julie Pharaoh–Gan

Julie has worked for the Charity for 12 years now, and has been involved in organising events and activities, supporting the marketing strategy, managing volunteers, managing The Fussy Filly, supporting HAPPA’s community fundraising and external presence and much more. Maintaining all these duties Julie now heads up the Development Team; Equine Development Officer, Digital Administrator, Education & Events Co-ordinator, Volunteer team and Receptionists, as well as delivering our marketing strategy including the HAPPA magazine.

“I am thrilled to be able to take up this role and begin my journey into management with a team I already know and love! I welcome the challenges that lie ahead to ensure our presence in the community and online is maintained to a high-standard, to ensure that we continue to fundraise and develop income streams at the Centre, to develop our educational programme and activities, to continue to develop our volunteer programme and work with our volunteers and finally to support our equine activities and events at the Centre; ensuring we continue to strive to improve and promote equine welfare.”

Mark Travis

Mark has worked for the Charity for a number of years now and was involved with the café from the word go, as the Chef Manager. Recently Mark has progressed and taken on the role of Hospitality Manager. With over 20 years’ experience within the hospitality industry and owning his own restaurant Mark’s knowledge will prove key to promoting the conferencing facilities on site as well as overseeing the smooth running of The Café. Mark works closely with the Kitchen and Restaurant Supervisors to ensure the best possible quality and customer service is experienced by all visitors to Shores Hey Farm.

“I am extremely happy to be given the opportunity to learn new skills and progress to this new position within a great Charity I’ve seen change and progress over the years.  I am excited to take on the challenge of promoting and securing bookings for the hire of the unique facilities at Shores Hey Farm. It is lovely to know that all the income generated in my new role is put back into the Charity to help the horses, ponies and donkeys we rescue.”

Andy Black

Andy Black is Shores Hey Farm’s Kitchen Supervisor, dealing with the day-to-day management of the kitchen and staff, preparing meals and designing menu choices. Andy started taking an interest in catering at school and did summer work experiences at La Belle Époque, Knutsford under Chef David Mooney. After school he started college studying AVCE Hospitality and Catering Management alongside NVQ L1 in Food Service and Preparation and NVQ L3 in Food Preparation and Cookery. Whilst at college he competed and came runner up in the Nestle Toque D’or Competition in London. After leaving college he had a  six month contract in Florida at, the then, No 3 Country Club in USA Boca West.

Upon returning from Florida he started working as a Chef De Partie at The Higher Trapp, Burnley and soon climbed the ranks to Head Chef. Having continued to work around the area in lots of different environments, including Head Chef of Bannisters Restaurant, Colne we are all looking forward to trying Andy’s new menu and specials in The Café.

“I am looking forward to a bright and rewarding future here at Shores Hey Farm.”

Andy is an avid football fan, being a Burnley Football Club supporter for many years!

The Hospitality Team

Mark Travis heads up the Hospitality Team with Andy Black (Kitchen Supervisor) taking care of the smooth running of The Café and private function hire/conferencing facilities. This includes duties such as liaising with customers, writing and designing menus and delivering an excellent customer experience

All the team in The Café are qualified in food hygiene and safety and have also all taken part and passed the ‘Welcome to Excellence’ course which enables the team to deliver the very best in customer service.

Views from the Hospitality Team :-

“It’s a great place to come to work, seeing the horses benefit from the income raised is very rewarding.”

“It’s nice to use fresh ingredients and local suppliers for all our recipes.”

“I love meeting new customers, it makes my day seeing people enjoying the work we do here at the Centre from rescuing ponies to providing excellent food and service.”

Amanda Berry

Head of Equine Operations Amanda Berry is dedicated and passionate about Equine Welfare and the longevity of HAPPA. Having been employed by the Charity for almost 25 years, she brings a wealth of experience to her role. Amanda is accountable for HAPPA’s team of Inspectorate who are responsible for the implementation of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which is the legislation that imposes greater responsibilities on owners to provide for their equine’s basic needs.

Amanda also heads up the Centre Team and oversees daily operations and activities essential to the delivery and development of HAPPA’s mission and vision. Amanda is a highly motivated driven member of staff and prides herself in the success of her team. She is at her best when challenged and focused on achieving organisational objectives and goals. Amanda is passionate about growing people, encouraging her team to take an interest in their own development opportunities.

“I literally live and breathe horses, they are my absolute passion and I am committed to equine welfare 100%. I love working for HAPPA and thrive in a fast paced environment where every day is filled with diversity. The team at HAPPA are full of enthusiasm and their expertise is second to none. Coming to work every day for me is always a pleasure and never a chore”.

Jeanette Orrell

Jeanette is one of HAPPA’s Loan Scheme Support Officers and she has a lifetime of experience of equines, as well as experience of offering support and care.

Jeanette is on hand to offer advice and guidance for our Borrowers and is in charge of scheduling home visits twice per year. Delivering effective Care Plans and assisting in educational presentations for groups and individuals is another aspect of Jeanette’s varied role.

“I have worked in this role a few years now and previous to that I worked 10 years as an Equine Care Officer here at HAPPA where I gained much of my knowledge and expertise.

I feel very fortunate to be part of the journey from rescue to rehoming and love being able to see an equine in their Forever Home especially visiting those I used to take care of at the Centre.”

Tracy Heaton

Tracy is HAPPA’s North West Equine Inspector, she investigates complaints of cruelty and neglect covering a large operational area always putting the welfare of equines first, working within the constraints of The Animal Welfare Act (2006) and other legislation.

She also provides support to HAPPA Borrowers and enjoys visiting them twice a year to ensure that all is well with HAPPA equines in their Forever Homes. She has many strings to her bow and is an excellent presenter delivering presentations promoting HAPPA to groups and community clubs. Tracy plays an integral part in HAPPA’s educational offering and supports in house training covering legislation and the role of the Equine Inspector.

As a retired Cheshire Police Officer and a life-long horse owner she brings a wealth of knowledge, training and experience to the role. She is passionate about Equine Welfare and is a dedicated member of staff. She is warm and friendly and committed to supporting owners and Borrowers in all things equine.

“I feel privileged to be a part of HAPPA , it is a professional, effective and caring charity. Although some days are more difficult than others I embrace the challenges of my role in the knowledge I am improving the welfare of horses , ponies and donkeys”.

Tracy spends her free time with her own horses.

Elizabeth (Liz) Pharaoh

Liz is HAPPA’s North East Equine Inspector, she investigates complaints of cruelty and neglect covering a large operational area always putting the welfare of equines first, working within the constraints of The Animal Welfare Act (2006) and other legislation. She also provides support to HAPPA Borrowers, visiting them twice a year to ensure that all is well with HAPPA equines in their Forever Homes.

Having trained and served with The Metropolitan Police and then with West Yorkshire she brings a wealth of knowledge to the team when dealing with the Law and Criminal Evidence.

As a retired Mounted Branch Officer and a life-long horse owner she brings a host of knowledge and experience to the role and is passionate about Equine Welfare. She is warm and friendly and committed to supporting owners and Borrowers in all things equine.

“My role is to ensure that HAPPA can make a difference to an equine’s life, no matter how small or big that may be. Being part of the Equine Action Team means a great deal to me, I enjoy visiting Borrowers and seeing HAPPA equines bloom in there Forever Homes, but I also thrive on the challenges dealing with welfare brings”.

Liz spends her free time with her own horses, dogs, cats, chickens and guinea pig named Brian!

Laura Brown

Laura joined the Charity as Deputy Centre Manager back in 2013 as maternity cover. After seeing the Centre develop and being part of the yard team Laura applied, successfully, for the role of Equine Development Officer. Laura is responsible for the rehoming of the equines onsite, the Second Chance Sponsorship Scheme, onsite equine events such as clinics and Dressage competitions and sourcing and stocking The Fussy Filly.

Laura brings with her a BCS (HONS) degree in Equine Studies and Physical Therapy and a wealth of knowledge working in the industry for a number of professional dressage riders.

“I love my job! After returning to HAPPA from maternity leave in 2017 I was ready to get stuck in, looking and creating new opportunities for us to evolve. I look forward to what the future holds!”

Rachael Barnes

Rachael is HAPPA’s Senior Equine Training Officer and holds her level 3 Extended Diploma in horse management and BHS stage 3 ride, lunge and care with the hopes of passing her Stage 3 Coach qualification later on this year. Rachael has worked on international Showjumping, Event and Stud yards across the country as well as working for a number of years in equine welfare. Through this she has gained a vast amount of experience in numerous equine fields which has put her in good stead when working with our equines who have had such varied and troubled pasts. Rachael uses a lot of natural horsemanship techniques which is extremely useful when working with horses that have behavioural issues, she finds these the most enjoyable and rewarding to work with. Rachael is dedicated to each individual horse and its development by creating individual rehabilitation programmes for each and every horse under our care alongside Celia.

In Rachael’s spare time she is currently working with her own rehabilitation project, Belle a 5 year old ROR horse who she intends to compete with British Eventing later on this season, Belle has a lot of spirit and can be tricky to work with at times but Rachael is enjoying the challenge and is looking forward to seeing how she progresses.

“I am delighted to be given this exciting opportunity to return to HAPPA. I love the challenge of helping each individual horse to achieve their full potential. Seeing them leave the Centre as happy, healthy horses is very rewarding”.

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Morgan Walmsley

Morgan is HAPPA’s Senior Equine Training Officer and holds a BHS Stage 3 Coach in Complete Horsemanship. Morgan has worked as head girl on numerous international event yards across the country, she has also worked on stud yards backing young horses for top end clients. Through this she has developed different methods to work with HAPPA horses involving a lot of natural horsemanship, this is invaluable in the welfare sector as a lot of the equines in our care are damaged, not only physically but mentally as well. Morgan has competed in British Showjumping, British Eventing and British Dressage, this all round knowledge means she can assess and develop each individual equine to reach its full potential.

In her spare time Morgan is very active and last year completed the National Three Peak Challenge in 21hrs 57minutes and raised over £2,000 for ‘the eve appeal’ which researches into women’s genealogical cancers.

“Working at HAPPA is so rewarding and I love helping each individual achieve the most they can after such terrible starts in life.”

Nicole Simpson

Nicole, our Senior Equine Care Officer, works alongside the Equine Trainer and Equine Care Supervisors to ensure that the stable yard runs smoothly, from the day to day care supervision for every equine to dealing with the vet and other professionals, ordering supplies and liaising with the Equine Action Team and Rehoming with the Equine Development Officer, it is a busy and varied role. Nicole’s organisation and forward planning skills are essential to this role and she has revelled in the opportunity resulting in new working practises ensuring HAPPA equines receive the best possible care. Nicole holds BHS Stage 2 Ride, Care and Lunge qualifications and has worked on international jumping yards. Nicole can turn her hand to anything and has taken sole charge of some of our events at HAPPA with fabulous feedback.

“The opportunity to take on more responsibility has helped me grow as a person and I’ve become a lot more confident in myself, I can’t wait to see what more I can learn in the future.”

Adele Forster

Adele is an Equine Care Supervisor at HAPPA and holds her BHS Stage 2 in riding and care, Adele has worked for international show riders and producers competing at top level shows such as the Royal International and HOYS. Her wealth of knowledge in correct etiquette and training ensures we can maintain our horse’s physical and mental development to the utmost level and helps to establish the smooth running of the yard.

In Adele’s spare time she produces and competes her own horses Fly and Maddie in affiliated dressage and showing with great success. This year alone Adele qualified for TOYS with Maddie and was Trailblazers in hand and ridden champion with both horses in their own sections. Her ultimate goal for the future would be to qualify and compete at HOYS with Fly.

‘Working at HAPPA is such a rewarding job, I especially like working with the difficult horses who have had a bad start in life, seeing them leave the centre happy, healthy horses and knowing you have been a part of their journey is the best feeling in the world’

Celia Royds

Celia is an Equine Care Supervisor at HAPPA and holds her BHS Stage 2 in riding and care she also has a National Diploma in Horse Management. Celia has worked on professional stud yards and for international event riders, this work has helped Celia to gain valuable experience in numerous equine environments which is essential to her job role. Celia supervises the training of all the horses and staff alongside Morgan this ensures every equine learns and develops in a constructive way and at a pace which is suitable for them.

Celia is a real animal lover owning five rabbits, two chinchillas, a dog, a cat, she also has three horses of her own, one of which is an Andalusian stallion called Fardo which she regularly competes at dressage, Celia’s goal is to event Fardo in the future.

‘When I was younger I adopted a pony (HAPPA Nutmeg) here at HAPPA and knew from that day that I wanted to work here. I enjoy working with all the horses but especially those that are more difficult and not straight forward as I like a good challenge.’

the Equine Team

Amanda Berry heads up with Nicole Simpson and Morgan Walmsley taking care of the smooth running of the yard and equine facilities.

All the Equine Team receive in-house training, working towards BHS Stage Two Qualification pathway and passed the ‘Welcome to Excellence’ course which enables the team to deliver the very best in customer service. The Team also work hard to deliver an outstanding Rescue, Rehabilitation, Rehoming Programme that sets the benchmark allowing HAPPA to Lead the Field in Equine Welfare.

Views from the Equine Team:-

‘’Working alongside the rescue horses is definitely one of the highlights which makes my job worthwhile.”

“I love helping each individual equine achieve the most they can after such terrible starts in life.”

“I thoroughly love my job and the different challenges it presents every day.”

“I enjoy supporting a large yard team and helping them grow within themselves.”

“I am so proud when our equines are matched with loveable Forever Homes.”

“Working for HAPPA is Amazing!”

“If you love horses, then you will love working for HAPPA!”