HAPPA Celebrates Triple Win at Lancashire Tourism Awards 2026
Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) is celebrating a remarkable triple success after winning three prestigious awards at the 2026 Lancashire Tourism Awards.
The Burnley-based equine rescue charity and visitor attraction was recognised for excellence across visitor experience, team dedication and community impact, securing:
- Small Visitor Attraction of the Year
- Experience of the Year – Own a Pony Day
- Unsung Hero Award – Andy Black, Café Manager, The HAPPA Café
The Lancashire Tourism Awards celebrate the very best of the county’s thriving visitor economy, honouring organisations and individuals who deliver outstanding experiences across Lancashire.
HAPPA’s win in the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category recognises its unique model as both a working equine rescue centre and a welcoming public destination. Visitors can meet rescued horses and ponies, explore scenic countryside walks and enjoy homemade food at The HAPPA Café, with every visit directly supporting the Charity’s vital welfare work.
The Charity’s popular Own a Pony Day was awarded Experience of the Year, highlighting its innovative approach to equine education. The hands-on experience allows participants to learn about horse care, grooming and welfare in a safe, supportive environment, promoting responsible ownership while building confidence and wellbeing.
The evening also saw individual recognition for Andy Black, Café Manager at The HAPPA Café, who received the Unsung Hero Award. Judges praised his leadership, commitment and behind-the-scenes contribution to creating a warm, welcoming experience for visitors. The HAPPA Café has become a much-loved destination in its own right, attracting guests from across Lancashire and beyond.
Sarah Arthur, Chief Executive Officer of HAPPA, said:
“At the Lancashire Tourism Awards 2026, our charity experienced one of the most unforgettable evenings we’ve ever had. We were finalists in four categories and to come home with three winners’ awards is something truly special.
When our name was called, all I could think about was the people who made it possible, our supporters. Your trust, encouragement and belief in what we do have carried us through some incredibly challenging times.
These awards don’t just belong to HAPPA. They belong to every single person who has stood beside us. Our visitors, volunteers, donors and community.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for lifting us up, believing in us and helping us shine brighter than ever before.”
As a registered charity, HAPPA rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes horses and ponies who have suffered neglect, abuse or abandonment. Income generated through visitor experiences and on-site facilities plays a crucial role in funding life-saving equine welfare work.
The triple award win further strengthens HAPPA’s position as one of Lancashire’s most distinctive and impactful visitor attractions, combining countryside access, community engagement and animal welfare education in one unique destination.
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Read the press release announcing all the winners of the Lancashire Tourism Awards 2026
