Yorkshire author Gregory Harris has been raising money for working horse and donkey charity Brooke by selling his children’s books.

Gregory’s books, including the Billy Burro series, a trilogy based on the adventures of a young donkey from Blackpool who likes to help others, have so far raised more than £500 for the charity.

As well as being available to buy at Waterstones, Gregory has been selling his books through his market stall in Saltburn-by-the-Sea. He has been giving a donation from the sale of his Billy Burro books to Brooke since 2024.

The Billy Burro series comprises The Amazing Adventures of Billy Burro, Billy Burro’s Charity Continues and Billy Burro Bounces Back.

“At first sight, you might be forgiven for thinking that Brooke mainly transforms the physical health of working horses, donkeys and mules,” said Gregory.

“However, Brooke’s support is far more encompassing, there also to support a working animals’ mental wellbeing, ensuring that it and the families and connected communities receive the same kind of lasting support through education and training.” 

About Brooke

Brooke, which was founded by Dorothy Brooke in 1934, works with communities, local health providers and policy makers to create a better life for working animals and their owners. 

The charity recognises that working animals are an essential part of many communities around the world and without them they would be unable to earn a living, provide food for their families and send their children to school. 

Last month, Brooke won the People’s Choice Award at the 2025 Smiley Charity Film Awards for its short film, Brooke at 90, which explores the charity’s 90-year history of improving the lives of working animals.

Main image © Brooke.

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