100 years of positive vibes (and lasagne) for 'proper Italian nonna' Lina
Lasagne and positive vibes are the secrets to a long life according to a "proper Italian nonna," who celebrated her 100th birthday in Shrewsbury this week.
Lina Cori, who lives in Harlescott, received the shock of her life when daughters Nancy and Josie took her outside to see town crier Martin Wood and all her neighbours clapping and cheering on their doorstep.
The mother of three, grandmother of five and great-grandmother of eight was all smiles as Martin, joined by his wife Sue, gave her a special speech.
Lina, who is originally from northern Italy but moved to the UK in the late 1940s, had hoped to have a big party for her centenary, but couldn't due to Covid-19 restrictions. However, she was thrilled with her socially distanced celebrations.
"She's a happy bunny," said daughter Nancy.
"We made the most of the situation. This all happened because of my neighbour, Di Poole. She loves my mum and thought we should have a party outside."
"All the neighbours came out," she added.
"She's well loved here, my mum. They all say she's got a lovely smile. She's had so many flowers and about 100 cards.
"I think positivity has kept her going. She loves good food and always made amazing lasagne."
Lina first moved to Lancashire in the late 40s after seeing an advert for a job as a domestic in an Italian newspaper.
She then moved to Wales to be with her friend at an old Italian prisoner of war camp, where she met Gaetano, who she married in 1949.
They had Nancy, Josie and son Tony in the early 1950s, and moved to Shrewsbury in 1966 after living in north Shropshire for a while.
Lina was also a popular character when she worked serving coffees at Sidoli's in Castle Street, Shrewsbury.
