18 photos that sum up the 100 days of lockdown for readers

On the evening of March 23, the Prime Minister in a televised briefing held later than usual told everyone to stay at home and only go out for essential reasons.

Many had to work from home and parents had to adapt to homeschooling as schools were closed to most pupils. Families not living together were also unable to see each other.

Since May, the UK has been slowly reopening as lockdown restrictions ease. Non-essential shops reopened on June 15, and pubs, restaurants and hairdressers will be allowed to get back to business on Saturday.

As we begin to adjust to a new normal, the Observer asked readers to share pictures that sum up the past 100 days for them:

Socially-distanced family visits

This photo by Watford Mencap shows Peter (a Mencap volunteer driver) playing Operation through a window with his brother who lives at the Berrywood residential project.

Cousin’s playing two meters apart. Photo by Tracy Simmons

A boy waving to relatives from a distance. Photo by Rhae Janaway

Family time

Melanie Humphrey, who was able to spend more time with her two sons, said: "My boys who have been amazing through the whole thing."

Staring at empty roads

Frances Edwards said shared a picture of the empty road outside her home. She said: "The Rickmansworth Road outside my office back in March-hardly any traffic was really eerie!"

A41 Bypass day after lockdown was announced. Photo by Angela Scott

Alcohol, sunshine and garden time

Laura Helen McKelvey has been enjoying the lockdown She shared this picture and said: "Lots of alcohol! With lots of sunshine and garden time!"

Families have been enjoying the sunshine from their gardens. Photo by Candice Seakins

Lots of baking

Many families have been busy honing their baking skills. Moo D'Souza said she spent lockdown baking sweet treats for her friends who are NHS staff and keyworkers.

Birthdays during lockdown

Anke Davis created her own birthday party guests during lockdown.

And Angela Scott received her birthday gifts on her doorstep.

Home with the pets

Mary Carter spent lots of time with her pets. She captioned this picture: "Fed up boys, Fergie and Giggsie."

Sonia Gomes said her dog enjoyed more walks during lockdown.

Volunteering at the hospital

Leanne Rose spent her lockdown volunteering at the hospital.

Masking up

Many have been following Government advice and wearing face masks when going to the shops or using public transport. Photos: Priya Starkey and Lisa Robertson

No sitting in the village green

Lyn Emerson shared this sad-looking photo of a bench that was out of use during the height of the lockdown. People were not allowed to sit and chat on the village green.

Fulfilling fitness goals

Leanne Rose has been using the time to get fit again. During her exercise, she found this gorgeous waterfall.