11 things the pandemic has taught Gazette readers - one year on from Lockdown 1

These are just some of the valuable lessons Shields Gazette readers say they have learnt during the coronavirus pandemic to date.

As we mark one year since the first national lockdown was announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson – on March 23, 2020 – we have been reflecting on an unpredictable and difficult 12 months.

Gazette readers answered our call to share the life-changing and important things they have taken on board during this time.

The past year has really made all of us think.

This is what you had to say on our Facebook page:

Tracy Bone: “Not to take anything or anyone for granted. I didn’t realise when I said goodbye to my friends and family that I wouldn’t see them for over a year. If I’d have known I would have hugged them for longer.

“Also don’t take ‘normal’ things for granted … wandering around the shops, having coffee with friends, eating in a restaurant, not covering your face. There’s so much.”

Becky Harvey: “How important being around your family and friends is. Never take it for granted.”

Janet Daley: “Through the bad times the good ones always shine the most. Groups helping the vulnerable and needy, local shop keepers and many more who worked tirelessly and still are.”

Kate Collon: “To never take anything for granted anymore and appreciate every minute I get to spend with the people I love.”

Joan Holder: “You can always rely on family and friends.”

Fatheha Khanom: “There's actually very little that you need in order to live contentedly. A happy home and a small network of supportive people are the essentials, not the materials.”

Lisa Marie Sullivan: “Teachers rule! No amount of gifts at the end of the school year will ever [make] me want to home school again.”

Raymond Miller: “How to adapt and not take everything for granted.”

Bill Day: “To live every moment when things are normal.”

Vicky Chisholm: “To appreciate hairdressers and pubs more!”

Sheila Smith: “That I am so lucky to have lovely friends.”

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