FOUR local betting shops have been rescued from closure after bookmaker Paddy Power agreed a deal with Roar! Betting.

Around 20 jobs have been saved at the shops in Hendon, North Finchley, Golders Green and Kingsbury after the Irish firm agreed the takeover yesterday.

All four will be shut for a fortnight while refurbishment work is undertaken to decorate them in the traditional green livery.

A spokesman for the bookie said: “This is great news for the local community with jobs protected and all bets honoured, so punters won’t lose out if they have a winning betting slip in their hands.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone back through the doors when they re-open in Paddy Power colours in a couple of weeks.”