New Indian takeaway opens with mural tribute to ‘golden boy’

A new business in Dundee has officially opened by commemora t ing a “golden boy” who grew up in the community.

A mural on the wall of Sheroos Indian takeaway on Hebrides Drive pays tribute to Steven Loftus, who took his own life 10 years ago, aged 23.

Steven’s mum, Yvonne Mullen, who was at the official opening of the restaurant, said she was overwhelmed by owner Yousaf Khan’s gesture of respect.

She said: “When we learned what Yousaf was planning to do, we were completely overcome.

“It was very emotional for us but we are really happy that he has chosen to remember Steven with this mural.”

S t e v e n’s body was found by his cousin, Ma r t i n Mu l len , in Finlathen Park, Fintry, in 2010 – four days after he went missing.

Steven was born and raised in the Mill o’ Mains area and went to the local primary before attending Braeview Academy.

After school, he worked with McTavish Ramsay, Tayside Contracts and Malcolm Construction in Dundee, and was latterly employed by the Skene Group.

In 2008, he suffered an accident at work in which he cut his face with a power saw – an injury that required 66 stitches and resulted in him being diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder.

Although S t e v e n’s personality changed after the accident, his mum said he remained as popular as ever.

“I was awfully proud of him. He was my golden boy,” said Yvonne.

She added: “As well as commemorating my son, Yousaf has pledged to help the local community as much as he can.”

Yvonne in front of the mural to her son.