Today (Tuesday 23 March) marks one year since the first national lockdown began in Britain, and sometimes it is hard to believe that, 365 days later, we are still under such stringent restrictions.

Wherever we turn we can see and feel the heartache and loss wrought by Covid-19, and we know that this National Day of Reflection is by no means the end of the struggles we face.

However, within the devastation there sits the odd glimmer of brightness.

As lockdown restrictions changed our way of life they allowed us to break with our everyday routines, making space for new – albeit limited – possibilities.

While stuck at home we have developed novel ways of passing the time: there have been virtual quizzes and escape rooms, forays into painting, baking and bird-watching, long bike rides, home haircuts, epic garden makeovers, board game championships and workouts on the living room floor.

Although worrying, painful and seemingly endless, our various lockdowns have reminded us how to make our own entertainment. And sometimes, they have even paved the way for a new business venture or career move.

We asked local residents about the positives they have drawn from their time at home.

Here's what they said:

"My partner and I have had the time to cook more of our favourite meals and try out new recipes at home. Thankfully, there has also been more time to exercise so we can work off all those delicious meals!"

"I started knitting. I've found it's been really helpful with my mental health."

"Lockdown definitely has allowed me to discover new places to walk and explore!"

"I started doing Lego to switch off and more recently have started a play reading group with three other actors, a writer and a sound recordist. We have our first podplay out today!"

"I started a business, Ivy & Bee Interiors, which has really helped me through the last 12 months with something to focus on."

"Having a laugh with my daughter, who wouldn't otherwise have been living at home. Now I'm looking forward to brighter times or, more specifically, a haircut!"

"I have enjoyed having the time to read all the books that had been gathering dust on the shelf!"

"One silver lining for me has been seeing the amazing kindness and dedication of frontline workers, but also of the local community."