AN animal welfare charity in Burnley will reopen its doors to visitors next week.

The Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) in Briercliffe was founded in 1937 and are well known for re-homing and rehabilitating equines, as well as investigating cases of cruelty and neglect.

The site has been closed to visitors throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, but following the planned easing of restrictions, will now open to visitors from Monday 28 June.

HAPPA chief executive Sarah Arthur said: "I am delighted to say we are able to welcome visitors once again.

"It has certainly been a turbulent and challenging year and yet throughout it all the HAPPA team have continued to provide the very best care for our horses and ponies, investigate cruelty and neglect and work hard behind the scenes to ensure that we continue to raise funds and awareness.

"I am immensely proud and humbled by my teams commitment to the cause.

"The best thing is that you can help HAPPA by visiting Shores Hey Farm, where you will be personally contributing towards the charities' vital work, ‘Giving a Second Chance to Abused, Neglected and Unwanted Equines’, and let’s not forget bringing a smile to the faces of a team passionate about ensuring HAPPA survives the pandemic."