A blind pony helping young people and prisoners through equine learning was among the winners at HAPPA’s first Hoof & Hearts Awards, held on Saturday 26 September.
The Horse and Ponies Protection Association welcomed a sold-out crowd to the Dunkenhalgh Hotel for its charity gala, raising more than £10,000 for its rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming work.
The new awards recognised animals, volunteers, rescue organisations and people who have made a difference to animal welfare. Seven category winners were announced, alongside one highly commended nomination.
Daisy the Pony, from Tracks Through Pastures, received the Horsepower Hero award. Despite being blind, Daisy supports young people and prisoners through therapeutic equine learning.
Another equine winner was Duke of York, named Fur-Ever Friend. Catherine Mawdsley’s horse has been her companion for 31 years, helped teach three generations and recovered from stress laminitis.
HAPPA Chief Executive Sarah Arthur said the awards reflected the patience and commitment behind rescue work.
“At HAPPA, we know that rescue is about far more than one moment of intervention; it is about patience, trust, rehabilitation and the belief that every animal deserves safety, dignity and the opportunity to thrive.”
Hoof & Hearts Awards 2026 winners
| Award | Winner | Recognised for |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower Hero | Daisy the Pony, Tracks Through Pastures | Supporting young people and prisoners through therapeutic equine learning |
| Fur-Ever Friend | Duke of York the Horse | His long companionship with Catherine Mawdsley and recovery from stress laminitis |
| Rescue Centre of the Year | Homeward Bound | Volunteer-led work reuniting, treating and rehoming cats and dogs |
| Fur-Ever Home Hero | Molly Kate Stowe | Providing Sparkie and Kasper with patient care and a home |
| Rescue Rockstar | Paula Knowles, Pendle Dogs in Need | Thirteen years helping abandoned and unwanted dogs and puppies |
| Tail Blazer | Equine QR | Creating QR products designed to give emergency responders horse and rider information |
| Rescue of the Year | RSPCA George | Overcoming an orphaned start and going on to win 26 national dressage titles with Theo |
The judges also highly commended Katie Smart, Sir George and Leash and Release. After Sir George died following a dog attack, Katie began an educational campaign promoting safer encounters around horses, livestock, wildlife and people.
Guests at the gala enjoyed dinner, entertainment and dancing, while a raffle and auction contributed to the fundraising total.
HAPPA is now looking ahead to the 2027 Hoof & Hearts Awards. Nominations for animals, individuals and organisations open on 1 October 2026.
