Stacey Solomon has become a foster parent to two ponies, named Mermaid and Thumbelina, after they were rescued by the Redwings Horse Sanctuary. This development closely follows a similar animal adoption by her acquaintance, Mrs Hinch, whose real name is Sophie Hinchcliffe, who recently welcomed three alpacas to her farm.
Solomon announced the arrival of the ponies on Instagram, sharing that she had dreamed of rescuing animals since childhood. She explained that Thumbelina was rescued after experiencing severe neglect, while Mermaid's owner could no longer care for her. Solomon expressed gratitude for the opportunity to offer them a home, with the hope they might stay permanently. The ponies will reside in a sectioned-off grass area with a dry shelter, and the Redwings Horse Sanctuary will provide guidance.
Lianne, a friend and animal sanctuary worker, will assist Solomon as a 'Pony hand/extra pony Mumma.' Solomon emphasized that fostering animals is a commitment not taken lightly and that they aim to be the best foster parents possible.
This move by Solomon is seen by some observers as mirroring actions taken by Mrs Hinch. In 2022, Mrs Hinch shared that she and her husband Jamie had adopted three alpacas named Roy, Rodney, and Raymond. She described the happiness the animals brought to their family and shared photos of them on social media.
Sources have suggested a growing distance and a shift in the relationship between Solomon and Hinch from close friends to 'frenemies.' The two initially bonded in 2019, with Solomon offering support as Hinch's cleaning and home organizing brand grew. They frequently appeared together on social media, leading fans to note their similarities. Solomon even chose Hinch as a bridesmaid for her 2022 wedding to Joe Swash.
However, reports indicate that behind the scenes, the competitive nature of the influencer economy may have impacted their friendship. Both women have secured brand deals with major retailers, including Amazon, Tesco, Asda, Home Bargains, and Karcher. This increased competition is cited as a factor in their diverging paths, with Hinch appearing less frequently on Solomon's social media, and Solomon absent from some of Hinch's wedding photos. One source claimed that Solomon viewed their relationship as business-oriented, while Hinch believed it to be a genuine friendship.