Fans weren’t holding back their criticism after Alison Hammond shared affectionate photos with her boyfriend during a visit to a wildlife park.
The 40-year-old This Morning presenter seemed overjoyed alongside her 26-year-old Russian beau, David Puttman, but followers were irked upon discovering that Alison hadn’t paid for the £2,000 getaway.
While Alison clarified that the trip had been “gifted” to her, fans remained unimpressed.
In an Instagram video, where Alison frolics with animals amidst picturesque scenery, she expressed her delight with the stay at Port Lympne Zoo in Kent:
“What a lovely stay at @portlympnepark a superb hotel and reserve! Staying at the Lion’s Lodge was a dream and truly unforgettable. Thanks for the invite and looking after me.”
Following her post, discontent among followers was palpable. One commenter snapped, “How can they gift you this when it is a charity organization yet it is £2,000 a night for us normal folk to stay there?”
Another lamented,
“Such a shame it was gifted. The £1,6000 a night it costs to stay there would have helped the animals greatly.”
A third criticized,
“Show off. Typical gifted, how selfish. Why not give to a family in need of a break?”
The Mirror reached out to Alison’s representatives for comment on the matter.
Despite the backlash over the free trip, Alison’s relationship with David has been a topic of conversation, primarily due to their noticeable age gap. Allegedly, Alison met David while availing herself of his massage services.
The Big Brother alum and masseuse reportedly hit it off after a string of appointments, and Alison is purportedly happier than ever.
Standing at 6ft10, David works as a model and dancer, occasionally sharing provocative photos with his online followers, alongside his work as a masseuse in London.
Although the details of their initial encounter were sparse, sources have shed light on the couple’s bond, suggesting their romantic involvement began late last year amidst Alison’s busy schedule.
Describing David as quiet, thoughtful, and fond of playing the guitar, a source disclosed to The Sun,
“He’s the strong, silent type, not a pushover but not chatty like Alison. In that sense, they’re perfect for each other, and to David, age is just a number.”
Following the snapshots of their visit to the wildlife park, speculation arose among fans, with some wondering if Alison was scouting wedding venues.
“Marriage venue???????” pondered one fan, while another chimed in, “My goddaughter had her wedding there.”
Alison and David enjoyed their stay at the opulent Lion’s Lodge within the wildlife park, an experience starting at £1,450 per night, inclusive of a golf buggy for exploring the reserve.