On Monday, March 23, 2020, following a Cobra meeting, Boris Johnson told people they must stay at home, and only leave for essential reasons, including buying food and exercising, once a day. He described Covid-19 as “the biggest threat this country has faced for decades”, urging the public to stay at home and clap the NHS.
It wasn’t until May 10 before a conditional plan for lifting lockdown was announced, when then PM said that people who couldn’t work from home should return to the workplace, avoiding public transport.
Below we are remembering those strange times with a gallery depicting Burnley’s empty streets and parks in the two-month period following that life-changing announcement.
9. Four-year anniversary of lockdown in Burnley
Burnley's ASDA superstore. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
10. Four-year anniversary of lockdown in Burnley
Signs around Pendle Hill claim that it is still closed despite the lockdown restrictions being relaxed. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
11. Four-year anniversary of lockdown in Burnley
Signs around Pendle Hill claim that it is still closed despite the lockdown restrictions being relaxed. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
12. Four-year anniversary of lockdown in Burnley
Cars approach Covid-19 testing centre at Turf Moor, home of Burnley Football Club. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard