That picture has been mirrored in Northumberland but its community spirit has stayed strong throughout.
Here are 19 pictures chronicling the past 12 months in Northumberland.
5. Food banks
Alnwick Town Council employee Ian Richardson picking up food from Morrisons for delivery to the food bank. Photo: supplied
6. NHS thanks
A giant sand art message of support to the NHS and key workers hwas drawn on Bamburgh beach by castle maintenance manager Andrew Heeley on his daily exercise while in lockdown. Photo: supplied
7. Clap for Carers
Piper Andy Grant paraded through South Charlton, near Alnwick, for the Clap for Carers tribute on Thursday nights. Photo: supplied
8. Free beer
The Alnwick Brewery hit the headlines when it made the decision to let punters have its beer for free in return for a donation to the NHS Charities Together fund - rather than allow it to go bad and pour it down the drain. Photo: supplied