A HALESOWEN woman whose parents owned a sweet shop in the town has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Josie Rosa, who still dances despite reaching her century, grew up living at the back of her parents' Theresa and Giovanni's sweet shop in Peckingham Street.

Giovanni, who was known as John or Jack to customers, was a popular character, who made his own Italian ice cream which he used to take round on his motorbike and sidecar.

Josie, who went to Tenterfields School, and lived in Halesowen all her life, never married and worked at a Halesowen steel works in charge of production.

Halesowen News: Josie Rosa celebrating her 100th birthday!Josie Rosa celebrating her 100th birthday! (Image: Handout)

Lyn Willetts, of Lapal House care home in Halesowen, where Josie now lives, said: "Josie's secret to reaching 100 is never being married or drinking and smoking.

"She loved to dance and still does!

"She lived in Halesowen all of her life and loves the town; she lived in Cobham Road before coming to Lapal House in November 2016."

Josie was a member of the Women’s league of Health and Beauty at Halesowen Leisure centre.

She celebrated her milestone birthday on January 16 and received a birthday card from King Charles III and his wife Camilla.