It’s two years ago since that announcement came - a moment which completely changed life as we knew it. And what a contrast it was. The streets became deserted and an eerie stillness fell. Buses were empty, shutters were down on shop windows and the laughter of children faded away as parks were shut. Our photographers were there to capture it all on camera as these photos show.
19. Lockdown 2020
No children in sight - Stanley Park closed Photo: Daniel Martino
20. Lockdown 2020
Socially distanced queues outside the butchers for essential food items Photo: Daniel Martino
21. Lockdown 2020
People queue for Barclays Bank in St Annes Photo: Daniel Martino
22. Lockdown 2020
A thank you message to the NHS at the streets of Blackpool in April 2020 Photo: JPIMedia
23. Lockdown 2020
A near deserted beach and promenade as people heeded the official advice and stayed home on Easter Sunday Photo: Christopher Furlong
24. Lockdown 2020
How different this scene was in lockdown compared to normal Photo: JPIMedia