Mill Hill Village Cricket Club has provided an update on its efforts to install new practice nets at Burtonhole Lane.

The club had hoped to have the facility, backed financially in part by the England and Wales Cricket Board and Barnet council, ready for use in the summer of 2023. But the build has encountered setbacks. Work was delayed last autumn due to scheduling issues with the chosen installation company and later halted again after asbestos was discovered under the planned location for the nets. Discussions with health and safety agencies and planning for its safe removal caused a further delay.

As the club approached the planned resumption of work, wet weather conditions prevented the required deliveries of materials and heavy vehicles.

Now, after a wet spring, the club remains optimistic that work can resume soon.

Director of Cricket Philip Smith said: “We remain optimistic that the work can be completed in the first half of this summer, in time for both the junior and adult sections to make some good use of the facility this season.

“Many thanks to all those who contributed to the fundraising efforts. We are at 93 percent of our initial target of £45,000 although the asbestos issue has added a few thousand pounds to the final bill.

“If you feel able to help push us a little closer to the magic number, then you can still make a contribution on our Just Giving page here.

“Let’s hope for a trouble free install from now on.”