Non-essential retailers and gyms were already closed due to the North East’s Tier 4 restrictions, and now schools have joined them.
With people told to work from home unless they cannot, South Shields was deserted this morning with both main streets and the coastline very quiet.
Our photographers captured these images from the town as lockdown measures returned.
1. King Street
With all but non-essential shops closed, King Street had a handful of visitors. Photo: JPIMedia
2. Sparse scene
The seaside was close to empty. Photo: JPIMedia
3. Quiet morning
A solitary walker in South Shields town centre. Photo: JPIMedia
4. All but empty
With residents told to stay at home unless for essential reasons, the streets were close to deserted. Photo: JPIMedia