HAPPA Hoof & Hearts Awards 2026

Celebrating Animal Heroes Across the North

Be part of something truly special this year and help us celebrate rescued animals and the incredible people behind them across the North West.

At Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA), we are proud to introduce a brand-new event for 2026. Based in Burnley, our charity is bringing something unique to Lancashire, an opportunity to recognise the animals and individuals who make a real difference every single day.

What Are the HAPPA Hoof & Hearts Awards?

The HAPPA Hoof & Hearts Awards 2026 have been created to honour the people and animals who make our lives better.

We invite nominations from across the Northwest and Northeast of England from:

• Charities
• Non-profits
• Businesses
• Individuals

These awards will shine a spotlight on those leading the way in animal welfare, compassion and care.

From rescue centres and volunteers to beloved companion animals and inspiring equines, this event is a celebration of dedication, resilience and the powerful bond between humans and animals.

A Night to Celebrate Animal Welfare

This special event will bring together:

• Pet owners
• Animal lovers
• Equestrian communities
• Rescue organisations

All for an unforgettable evening of glitz and glamour, offering a moment to step away from the hard work of animal care and celebrate the impact being made across the region.

We are calling on local communities to get involved! Nominate a special person, team or animal and be part of something truly unique: our first ever animal awards in the North.

Award Categories

Rescue of the Year

Celebrating the rescued animal of the year. This category is open to those who have rescued, or know of, an animal with a powerful story – overcoming neglect, injury or abandonment and transforming from despair to happiness.
This category progresses to an application stage.

Animal Rescue Centre of the Year

Recognising a rescue centre from anywhere in the UK that demonstrates innovation, compassion and measurable impact in animal welfare.
This category progresses to an application stage.

Tail Blazer Award

Honouring an individual, team or business delivering outstanding services in animal wellbeing, safety and happiness – from veterinary excellence and product innovation to exceptional pet care services.
This category progresses to an application stage.

Rescue Rockstar

Celebrating volunteers who go above and beyond – including fundraisers, fosterers and those who generously give their time in support of animal welfare.
Nominations only.

Fur-Ever Home Hero

Recognising those who give rescued animals a second chance by opening their homes and hearts, often taking on a challenging but rewarding journey.
Nominations only.

Horsepower Hero Award

Celebrating horses who go above and beyond for people, showing bravery, loyalty or helping to heal a human heart. Open to all equines.
Nominations only.

Fur-ever Friend Award

Honouring companion animals who have a profound impact on their owners’ lives, offering comfort, support and unconditional love every day.
Nominations only.

Charity Gala Evening

All nominees, supporters and guests are invited to join us for a truly special evening:

Saturday 26th September 2026
Dunkenhalgh Hotel

This Charity Awards & Gala event will bring everyone together to celebrate the incredible achievements within the animal welfare community.

Why These Awards Matter

HAPPA’s Vickie Henderson shares:

“It isn’t widely known, but we have a fantastic community of animal charities, community enterprises and individuals who go above and beyond for horses, dogs, cats and small animals in Lancashire. These awards will recognise these people, businesses and animals and allow us to give them all the huge round of applause and the thank you they so deserve. There will be so many that deserve a vote, and I would encourage anyone to get voting soon.”

How to Get Involved

Nominations for the HAPPA Hoof & Hearts Awards 2026 are now open.

Voting closes: 20th May at 11am

Whether you are nominating a rescue animal, a dedicated volunteer or an inspiring organisation, your nomination helps shine a light on the incredible work happening across the animal welfare sector.

Tickets & Sponsorship

Tickets for this unforgettable evening will be launched soon.

If you would like to:

• Get involved in the awards
• Sponsor the event
• Find out more

Call: 01282 455992
Email: fundraising@happa.org.uk

Be Part of Something Meaningful

Every nomination, every vote and every attendee helps celebrate the animals and people who make a difference and supports HAPPA’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome horses and ponies in need.

Join us in recognising the heart behind animal welfare.