THE most senior policeman in London came to Edgware yesterday to play cricket and take part in a walk for peace.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Ian Blair joined residents and people from across the country for a memorial walk arranged by Gill Hicks, who lost her legs during the 7/7 bombings in 2005.

The walk started in Leeds but Sir Ian met the procession at Edgware Reform Synagogue, in Stonegrove, after participants had already covered around 200 miles.

He said: “Londoners, and indeed the British public as a whole, will never forget the tragic events of July 7, 2005. Gill Hicks embodies the bravery and spirit of those who were most severely affected.

“I am pleased to be able to show my support for Gill and the WALKTALK initiative, and to join all those involved who wish to make our society one that embraces peaceful discussion, community safety and tolerance.”

Sir Ian went on to a cricket session at Canons High School, in Shaldon Road, in which council and police officers took on a team of young people from the area as part of a youth project.

Canons Cricket Academy was set up three years ago to help get teenagers off the streets and involved in sport.