NETS are to be put up to save cricket in Islington.

Netting will be installed at Wray Crescent, in Finsbury Park, to stop balls flying out of the park’s boundaries and causing damage in the street.

Play has been suspended by Islington Council after it was forced to shell out �680 to the owner of a car that was hit by a speeding six.

A campaign to rescue the borough’s last cricket pitch was launched – and this week gained the backing of Islington-born cricketer Billy Godleman, 22, who was capped 24 times at England under-19 level, and grew up playing on the Popham Estate, off Essex Road, Islington.

Councillor Catherine West, leader of Islington Council, said: “We’re big supporters of cricket and have made sure it can stay at Wray Crescent, which is greatly loved.

“Despite the huge pressure we face on budgets because of the Government’s cuts, we’re determined to protect Islington’s last cricket pitch.

“We’ll keep a close eye on the situation to make sure it’s working and that the sound of ball on willow continues in Islington for years to come.”

Cricket has been played at Wray Crescent for more than 20 years. The council said the precautions will be in place in time for play to restart in April, when the new cricket season begins.