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.
1. Lockdown 2020
A deserted seafront in Blackpool Photo: Daniel Martino
2. Lockdown 2020
Not a soul to be seen - this was Church Street on April 2 2020 Photo: JPIMedia
3. Lockdown 2020
An empty playground at Stanley Park when everything closed down Photo: Daniel Martino
4. Lockdown 2020
We had never seen motorways empty like this before - the M55 heading towards Blackpool Photo: Daniel Martino
5. Lockdown 2020
Fences were put up in parts of the town centre to stop people congregating. Pictured is Ma Kellys on the corner of Dickson Road and Talbot Road Photo: Blackpool Police
6. Lockdown 2020
This was the sign pinned to the door at The Grand Theatre. It was March 17th, just a few days before Boris Johnson officially told the nation to stay at home. Theatres remained closed until restrictions eased in August Photo: Daniel Martino