Cleaning influencer Sophie Hinchliffe, widely known as Mrs Hinch, became visibly emotional as she detailed the distressing burglary at her mother's home in Maldon, Essex, where thieves stole sentimental jewellery belonging to her late father, Alan.
Heartbreaking Theft of Sentimental Items
In an update shared on Friday evening via Instagram, the 35-year-old influencer fought back tears while expressing her profound sadness for her mother. Sophie explained that the stolen items included her mother's engagement ring, wedding ring, and eternity ring, all gifted by her father, making the loss particularly painful.
'I just feel so sad for my mum because to have her jewellery stolen is one thing but when it's things like your engagement ring, your wedding ring, your eternity ring and obviously from my dad, it's just really stung,' she told her followers in a heartfelt video.
Impact on the Family
The burglary, which occurred on Tuesday between 10am and 6pm, has left Sophie's mother feeling shaken and as though she has taken a step back in her grieving process. Speaking to The Sun, Sophie revealed that her mother is understandably distressed but is trying to remain strong amidst the ordeal.
'The jewellery holds deep sentimental value to her, particularly as a connection to my dad, and that’s what hurts most right now,' Sophie stated, emphasising the irreplaceable nature of the stolen pieces.
Community Support and Police Involvement
Sophie expressed immense gratitude for the overwhelming support from her online community, noting the widespread sharing of information about the stolen jewellery. However, she admitted that hopes for its return are fading, though she remains cautiously optimistic.
'Sadly it hasn't come back to us, I can't see it happening now. I don't want to lose hope but I also don't have much hope for it coming back,' she shared in her update.
Essex Police are fully involved in the investigation, with officers reviewing camera footage and monitoring the area. Sophie has publicly condemned the perpetrators, labelling their actions as 'vile' and 'disgusting' in a passionate Instagram plea for the jewellery's return.
Family Decisions and Moving Forward
In response to the burglary, Sophie has offered her mother temporary accommodation at her own home. However, respecting her mother's independence and preference for staying in her own house, the family is allowing her to lead any decisions regarding her living arrangements.
Despite the emotional toll, Sophie and her mother are focusing on positive memories from January, refusing to let the theft overshadow the good times they have shared recently.
'But like mum said, we're not going to get it take from the good times we've had this month. We've had some amazing things happen in January so we're going to hold on to them,' Sophie affirmed, highlighting their resilience in the face of adversity.
