A quite Sunderland city centre during the anniversary of the first lockdown.A quite Sunderland city centre during the anniversary of the first lockdown.
A quite Sunderland city centre during the anniversary of the first lockdown.

11 photos show how Sunderland city centre came to a stop to mark a year on from the first lockdown

Paused and heads bowed, visitors to Sunderland city centre joined in a nation-wide reflection to mark a year on from the beginning of the first lockdown.

The streets, once busy from opening time until the shutters started to come down, remain quiet as the third lockdown continues into its third month, with just essential shops and services still open to customers.

We were on hand to watch as people fell silent to remember those lost to the virus – more than 800 in the city and 156,100-plus across the UK – and as efforts continue to get out messages in a bid to keep people safe.

It comes as work goes on to prepare the country to come out of the lockdown in stages and as many Wearside businesses continue to offer collection, delivery and takeaway services.

Related topics: