Her Majesty The Queen has hosted a reception at Buckingham Palace, to mark the 90th anniversary of global charity, Brooke Action for Working Horses and Donkeys, of which she is President.

The Queen met with Brooke representatives from around the world including India, Pakistan, and Egypt, the birthplace of Brooke. Guests also included 40 of Brooke’s supporters, such as Rory Bremner, Annette Badland, Dr Scott Miller, Angela Rippon and the charity’s Patron, Alastair Stewart.

A small donkey and a pony greeted guests and were photographed with The Queen, who cut a Brooke 90th
anniversary cake to commemorate the occasion.

The day was a double cause for celebration, as The Queen confirmed she will continue as President of the charity, following a review of over 1,000 royal patronages and presidencies, including those formerly held by Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen has held the position since 2006 and is a strong supporter of equine welfare. She has travelled to countries including India, Pakistan and Egypt to see Brooke’s work. 

The royal family will continue its affiliation with more than 800 charities, to mark the first anniversary of His Majesty The King’s coronation.  

“I’d like to thank Her Majesty the Queen, for her lifelong dedication to equine welfare, her commitment to Brooke through her Presidency and for hosting a marvellous event for some of our valued supporters at Buckingham Palace,” said Chief Executive of Brooke, Chris Wainwright.

“The day provided us with a very official recognition of Brooke’s amazing impact on the lives of working horses, donkeys and mules over the last 90 years.

“Everyone at Brooke is and will always be driven by our passion for animal welfare, and we’re extremely privileged to have Royal support as we approach 100 years of transformational change.”

Brooke Action for Working Horses and Donkeys was founded in 1934 by Dorothy Brooke, reaching 1.4 million working horses, donkeys and mules and over 10,000 communities across Asia, Africa and Latin America. Their work is made possible thanks to Brooke’s UK supporters, whose fundraising ensures their efforts can continue.


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