11 pictures from Sunderland on the first day of North East's new Covid-19 restrictions
Our photographer has been out and about on the streets of Sunderland on the first day of new coronavirus restrictions for Wearside and other parts of the North East region.
Sunderland, South Tyneside, Gateshead, Durham, Northumberland, North Tyneside and Newcastle are now subject to new Covid-19 rules in an effort to stop the spread of the virus.
As of midnight on Friday, September 18 residents across the North East were told not to socialise with other households within private homes or gardens, with further restrictions to opening times and operations being enforced in leisure and entertainment venues.
These changes are in addition to the nationwide six-person limit on social gatherings which came into force on Monday, September 14. This rule is in place across the country and will sit alongside additional restrictions in some local areas, including the North East.
On Sunderland’s first day under the new restrictions, our photographer Stu Norton captured these scenes in the city.
These changes are in addition to the nationwide six-person limit on social gatherings which came into force on Monday, September 14. This rule is in place across the country and will sit alongside additional restrictions in some local areas, including the North East.
5. Keel Square
A handful of people out at Keel Square on Friday afternoon.
Photo: Stu Norton
6. Sunderland Station
There are no further restrictions on train travel or public transport - although people are advised to only use it for essential purposes such as for work or school.
Photo: Stu Norton
7. High Street West
With no further restrictions on shops, it was business as usual on High Street West.
Photo: Stu Norton