Lancashire to host animal awards celebrating courage, compassion and second chances

A brand-new, heart‑warming celebration is set to shine a spotlight on the animals and people who change lives across the North of England.

The Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA), the much‑loved Burnley‑based equine charity, is proudly launching the HAPPA Hoof & Hearts Awards 2026 a landmark event honouring extraordinary, rescued animals and the everyday heroes who refuse to give up on them.

The first event of its kind in the Northwest, the Hoof & Hearts Awards will celebrate compassion, commitment and courage, recognising those who dedicate their lives to improving animal welfare, often quietly, tirelessly and without recognition.

Nominations are now open to charities, non‑profits, businesses and individuals who are leading the way in animal rescue, care and wellbeing. From life‑saving rescues to unbreakable human‑animal bonds, the Awards aim to tell the powerful stories that deserve to be shared.

A glittering awards evening will bring together pet owners, animal lovers, equestrian communities and rescue organisations for a night of celebration and appreciation, a rare moment to step away from the daily challenges of animal care and come together in glitz, glamour and gratitude.

HAPPA is calling on local communities across Lancashire, Yorkshire and beyond to nominate a remarkable person, team or animal, helping to create a truly memorable event and animal awards in the Northwest, celebrating the very best across the region.

HAPPA’s CEO Sarah Arthur said of the awards “Animals give us so much more than we ever expect, comfort, joy, purpose and unconditional love. The Hoof & Hearts Awards are our way of celebrating not only the resilience of rescued animals, but the incredible happiness and hope they bring into people’s lives every single day. These awards are about recognising those special bonds that change lives forever.”

Award Categories

• Rescue of the Year – celebrating an extraordinary rescue animal
• Animal Rescue Centre of the Year – recognising outstanding rescue organisations (open to UK-wide entries)
• Tail Blazer Award – honouring individuals, teams or businesses making a powerful impact on animal wellbeing
• Rescue Rockstar – recognising volunteers who go above and beyond
• Fur‑Ever Home Hero – celebrating those who open their hearts and homes to rescued animals
• Horsepower Hero Award – honouring exceptional horses who transform human lives
• Fur‑Ever Friend Award – celebrating companion animals whose love changes everything

All nominees, supporters and friends are invited to join the HAPPA team for an unforgettable Awards & Gala Evening on Saturday 26th September, hosted at Mercure Dunkenhalgh Spa & Hotel.

Nominations for the HAPPA Hoof & Hearts Awards 2026 are now open, with voting closing on 20th May.

Nominees can be voted for by visiting: https://www.happa.org.uk/hoof-and-hearts-awards/

Alternatively, nominations can be made by contacting awards@happa.org.uk

Tickets for the Awards Evening will be released soon.

For further information about the HAPPA Hoof & Hearts Awards, sponsorship opportunities, or how to get involved, please call 01282 455992 or email awards@happa.org.uk