2021 began with schools beginning to reopen but most other pandemic restrictions remaining in place.
And it wasn’t until April that the first signs of ‘normal’ life began to show.
On April 5 2021, Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that pubs, restaurants, hairdressers, gyms and non-essential shops could reopen from April 12.
And as our photos saw, many people took the opportunity to take the first surreal step back to a bit of normality after a long winter.
1. Lockdown restrictions relaxed, April 2021
Cheers! A chance to enjoy an outdoor catch-up with friends as lockdown restrictions across England are relaxed. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
2. Lockdown restrictions relaxed, April 2021
Enjoying the outdoor life in Morecambe as restrictions are lifted. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
3. Lockdown restrictions relaxed, April 2021
Masks still had to be worn, but people in Lancaster were able to enjoy more shopping as lockdown rules were relaxed. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
4. Lockdown restrictions relaxed, April 2021
Making the most of the lockdown restrictions across England being relaxed with a Morecambe cafe visit. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard