The Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) will host a packed schedule of activities during February half term.

The Burnley-based charity is hoping to raise some much-needed funds through its range of events which begin on Monday 17 February at 7pm with its Equine Care & Cake Club. The club is open to anyone who is passionate about horses and who wants to learn the basics in equine care. 

The two-hour monthly meetings are designed to be welcoming and non-judgemental and cover a range of topics and skills. Each session is theory based and takes place in HAPPA’s on-site café. The club costs £12.50 per person per month and participants receive a content pack, a drink and a sweet treat. 

Spend time with HAPPA residents

On Tuesday 18 February, pony grooming sessions are available for £5 pp. The 15-minute sessions are supervised by HAPPA staff and teach participants how to correctly groom HAPPA horses and ponies.

Own a Pony days, which are aimed at children aged between six and 16, will take place on Wednesday 19 and Saturday 22 February. 

These days allow children to spend time with HAPPA’s horsey experts and own a HAPPA pony for a day. Participants will complete all the daily tasks required to care for a horse and may have the chance to sit on a pony at the end of the day. The cost is £35 per person and the day runs from 10am – 3pm.

Stretch your legs

The Winter Hill Walk will take place on Saturday 22 February at 10am. The guided walk takes places around the Lever Family Country Estate near Rivington and costs £15 per adult. Children are free and dogs are welcome. There are two walk options – a two hour easier walk and a three hour hillier walk. 

“We are lucky to have such a fabulous farm to call HAPPA’s home nestled in the Thursden Valley, it is a real gem of a location,” said Andy Black, HAPPA’s café manager. 

“We find that those who make the trip out to us are pleasantly surprised with what we have to offer. A unique day out with plenty for all to see and do. 

“If you are passionate about animal welfare join us in raising vital funds in any way you can. Bring your four-legged companion with you as we are completely dog friendly.”

The money raised through these events will help HAPPA to continue to do its work and rescue, rehabilitate and re-home horses, ponies and donkeys. 

For more information about any of the activities click here.

Image © HAPPA.

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