Three years ago today (March 23), at 8pm, the then Prime Minister Boris Johnson, uttered the words “you must stay at home” as he implemented the first Covid-19 lockdown in England to stop the spread of the disease.
All non-essential businesses were told to shut, everyone other than key workers had to stay at home, and social distancing measures were introduced.
People were still allowed out to head out to shop for essentials and take exercise, in line with Government guidance for when it is acceptable to go out, but streets and public transport remained quiet.
Here is a look back at South Shields during the first coronavirus lockdown on the third anniversary of it being brought into force.
5. Empty seats
In the early days of the pandemic, even benches were off limits to members of the public. Photo: Stu Norton
6. No shopping allowed
The town centre's clothes, sports and card shops were among the non-essential retailers which had to remain closed. Photo: Stu Norton
7. Follow the one-way system
One-way systems were part of the efforts to maintain social distancing. Photo: Stu Norton
8. Safety messages
Electronic advertising boards in the town centre were used to display messages on how people can stay safe from Covid. Photo: Stu Norton