Working animal charity Brooke has been awarded the People’s Choice Award at this year’s Smiley Charity Film Awards, the world’s largest campaign celebrating cause-based films.
The ceremony, held at Indigo at The O2 in London on 20 March 2025, saw Brooke recognised alongside organisations such as Four Paws, Oxfam, and the National Trust.
The charity won the award for its short film Brooke at 90, narrated by Midsomer Murders actress Annette Badland. The film chronicles 90 years of Brooke’s work improving the lives of working horses, donkeys, and mules worldwide.
A story of dedication
Reflecting on the award, Annette Badland said she was honoured to be part of a project that had resonated with so many people.
“I am immensely proud to support Brooke, a charity that impacts the lives of millions of working equines in communities where they are needed most,” she said.
“Reading the script moved me deeply, and I am delighted that it has touched so many others, as reflected in the response of the voters.”
Founded in 1934, Brooke was established by Dorothy Brooke, who rescued thousands of abandoned war horses in Egypt. Today, the charity operates across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, working to improve the welfare of animals that provide vital support to their owners.
Brooke at 90 combines archive footage with present-day scenes, highlighting the charity’s evolution and the lasting impact of Dorothy Brooke’s vision.
The role of working animals
Working horses, donkeys, and mules play a crucial role in many communities worldwide, supporting livelihoods by helping people transport goods, earn an income, and provide for their families. In many cases, these animals are considered part of the family, forming deep emotional bonds with their owners.
Brooke focuses on ensuring these animals receive the care they need, offering veterinary services, education, and advocacy to promote better welfare standards.
A platform for change
The Smiley Charity Film Awards were established to raise awareness for non-profit organisations, providing a platform for charities to share their stories and attract support. Since its inception, the initiative has helped more than 2,500 causes gain exposure, donations, and volunteers.
This is not the first time Brooke has been recognised at the event. In 2023, the charity won the Grand Prix People’s Choice Award for its film Unbreakable Bonds, which explored the strong relationships between people and their working animals.
The latest win for Brooke at 90 reinforces the charity’s long-standing commitment to improving the lives of working equines worldwide and highlights the power of storytelling in driving social change.
For more information about Brooke and its work, visit www.thebrooke.org.