With no travel and the stay at home restrictions, it gave people the chance to truly appreciate what’s on their doorsteps, from uncovering hidden corners of Sunderland to exploring parks we’d never had the chance to appreciate when stuck in the 9-5 of the rat race.
To mark a year since Lockdown was announced, on March 23, 2020, we’ve rounded up some of the photos shared with us on our Instagram account of people’s daily walks and activities.
9. Snow Day
Earlier this year the snow provided some outdoor fun with many families taking a break from home schooling for some much-needed fresh air. Photo: submitted
10. Surf's Up
Living in a city by the sea means many could take a breather from the stresses of the pandemic by surfing, paddle boarding, swimming and more. This surfer was captured last summer by John Alderson. Photo: John Alderson
11. Rainbow of hope
The late Dean Matthews was a regular contributer to the Echo Instagram page and will be forever remembered for showing his home city in a beautiful light. He shared this magical double rainbow at the Roker Riviera with us last summer. Photo: Dean Matthews Photography
12. Sign of the times
The lockdown saw many messages of hope etched in the sand and coastline for people passing. This one appeared in Whitburn last summer. Photo: submitted