These were the scenes in York today as the city prepared to go into lockdown for the second time this year.
There were flash sales on beer, and queues at shops and hair salons.
This afternoon (Wednesday) MPs backed the new four-week coronavirus lockdown for England, after Boris Johnson warned of an “existential threat” to the NHS without action to curb the spread of the disease.
From midnight pubs, restaurants and non-essential shops will again be forced to close their doors after the Commons voted by 516 to 38 – a Government majority of 478 – for the new restrictions.
York was busy for much of Wednesday as shoppers headed out for their last visit to many stores before 2 December.
City of York Council’s helpline is still running to provide support, whether that be collecting food and medicines, or giving advice. The helpline is on 01904 551550 or email [email protected].
Here are some of the scenes in the city today.
Queues at shops
Zara on Spurriergate: Shoppers queue to get into Zara, closed after today.
O2 on Spurriergate: Shuts up shop – now online sales only.
Jack Wills on Stonegate: The store had its last trading day today. It announced it was leaving York last month.
Marks and Spencer, Parliament Street: Shoppers queue to get in. It will stay open as a retailer of essentials.
Queues at barbers
Axis Barbershop on New Street: It was everyone’s last chance to get a trim today.
Sales at pubs
Guy Fawkes Inn on Low Petergate: It was £2 a pint all day, and £1 after 6pm as it sold off its beer stocks.
The Punch Bowl, Stonegate: It was selling cask and draught beer at 50% off.
The Starre on Stonegate: It closed at 3pm today.