Doughnut seller Lina Ognissanti to be honoured by Bedford mayor
- Published
A woman who has sold doughnuts and ice creams in a town centre for more than 40 years is to be honoured with a private mayoral reception.
Lina Ognissanti, who runs Dinky Donuts and an ice cream stall on Midland Road, Bedford, has been invited to afternoon tea, along with her family.
Almost 3,000 people signed an online petition to get her an award or recognition.
Mrs Ognissanti said it was an "honour" to be thought of so highly.
The Mayor of Bedford, Dave Hodgson, said Mrs Ognissanti, along with her children and grandchildren, had been invited to his parlour to view the civic regalia and historical artefacts and to have afternoon tea.
"Lina has a special status in Bedford, and her stand is an institution in the town centre," he said.
"I'm delighted that Lina has accepted my invitation and I look forward to welcoming her to the parlour in order that we can show our appreciation for her contribution to the town."
Mrs Ognissanti thanked the "lovely" people of Bedford for thinking of her, and said: "It is a great honour, and really nice."
Sarkab Mahmood, who started the petition, said he had not expected such a huge response.
"I am really happy for her, it is all down to Lina being such a great person," he said.
- Published4 February 2018
- Published23 September 2017