Howzat! Hackney Downs cricket pitch ready for play
Golden ducks, googleys, jump shots and crooked zebras are just some of the moves that you could spot on Hackney Downs this summer.
Hackney Downs has a new artificial cricket wicket, upgraded cricket field and new basketball practice nets. To celebrate the opening of these improved facilitates a match led by Stoke Newington Cricket Club coaches between young club members and local people, was held on Tuesday 26 May.
A £10,000 investment allows cricket and basketball to continue to be played on Hackney Downs. Local people, sports teams and schools will use the new facilities for practice sessions, competitive fixtures and tournaments.
The new cricket wicket and basketball facilities will give people the chance to play or practice in their local park. These facilities are open for everyone to use, whether it’s a local team or a group of friends. Sport like these are a good way to boost confidence and give a welcome boost works to health and fitness.
The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: “I’m delighted that my Sports Facilities Fund has been able to help to increase access to affordable sporting opportunities for hundreds of cricket and basketball-lovers in Hackney. These improvements will help to keep local people fit and healthy and encourage more people to take part in sport.”
The cricket wicket will need to be booked in advance and the basketball court is open during park opening times and free to use all day.
A grant from the Mayor of London: Sports Facilities Fund, which is delivered by the Football Foundation, enabled the improvement works to be carried out.
To book the refurbished cricket wicket call the Hackney Marsh Centre on 0208 986 7955. The Hackney Downs pavilion, changing facilities and club room can also be booked. To find out more call: 0208 356 5772.