Golden Year celebrations for HAPPA

HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association) are celebrating a milestone in the Charity’s history this year, its Golden Anniversary of its time in Burnley, Lancashire.

2024 marks the 50^th year the Charity’s headquarters and operations have been based in the town, and HAPPA would like local businesses, friends, and supporters to join them in this celebration.

When the Charity began to struggle to meet the demand for its service at their first home Capel Manor, London, HAPPA made the much-needed move to Greenbank Farm in Fence, Burnley, Lancashire in 1974. When a local horsewoman and avid HAPPA supporter, Pam Wood, offered her own farm as the Charity’s rescue home, thus began a truly remarkable time in HAPPA’s history. The move to the North of England ensured that the Charity had a settled and secure base to continue to rescue horses, ponies and donkeys from cruelty and neglect.

A move to the Charity’s very own premises, Shores Hey Farm, in Briercliffe, in 1984, cemented HAPPA’s place in the town. The then cattle farm has been developed over the last 50 years into the amazing, state of the art, equestrian facility, and visitor attraction we see today. This has only been possible due to the support of the local council and community who have truly embraced the Charity’s cause.

HAPPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Arthur, says of the Anniversary “This year is such a significant milestone in HAPPA’s history. Having a secure and steady future was key to the Charity coming to Burnley. Fifty years ago, Pam and local HAPPA supporters and friends made this happen, and we want to recognise and celebrate just how much has been achieved. I know that there are so many people who remember our time at Greenbank Farm, and those who have watched the Charity grow at Shores Hey Farm. This year we want everyone to get involved in making sure HAPPA can be here for another fifty years, and more, to give a second chance to neglected, abused and unwanted horses, ponies, and donkeys.”

Roll on 50 years, and HAPPA continues to make history in Burnley; helping thousands of equine owners across the county with help and advice on how to care for their animals and thousands more horses, ponies and donkeys who have called Greenbank, or Shores Hey Farm their home.

The Charity is hosting several events and activities to celebrate the prestigious year, with tickets on sale now for their Golden Anniversary Ball.

Glitz, Glam and Great Entertainment will be on the cards at HAPPA’s Golden Anniversary Ball at The Fence Gate on Saturday 20^th April. Guests will be treated to a three-course meal and entertainment by Nathan Moore.

Tickets for this event can be purchased at the HAPPA website at HAPPA's Golden Anniversary Ball » Horses And Ponies Protection Association | HAPPA or by calling 01282 455992.

There will be lots more from HAPPA during 2024, the Charity looks forward to celebrating with supporters, businesses, and friends. Here’s to another 50 years in Burnley for this special Charity doing such important work.