A MAN killed after being hit by a bus on a zebra crossing in New Southgate used to own a restaurant in the area.

Yiannikis Loizou, known as John, of Friars Walk, New Southgate, died eight days after being knocked down on a crossing just yards from his former restaurant Molo in Hampden Square.

The funeral for the 61-year-old, who died from head injuries, took place today.

Sophie Sadrettin, who owns Eden Florists in the square, said the death in the area had been “quite a shock to all of us”.

She added: “I was told he went out to get some milk but never came home. It’s so sad when someone like that has their life taken away from them.

“He wasn’t old and didn’t deserve to die like that. It’s not a dangerous crossing generally, it’s quite open so people can see when people are waiting to cross.”

Flowers have also been left at the scene of the crash, with one reading: “We will miss you and your smiley face. It was not your time.”

Police are asking anyone who saw the crash to contact them by calling 0208 998 5319.

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