Prime Minister Boris Johnson has praised the “great spirit” shown by Britain in tackling Covid-19, marking a year since the first lockdown by saying everyone’s efforts had allowed the country to start “on the cautious road” to easing restrictions, Reuters reports.

“Today, the anniversary of the first lockdown, is an opportunity to reflect on the past year — one of the most difficult in our country’s history,” Johnson said in a statement.

“We should also remember the great spirit shown by our nation over this past year. [...] It’s because of every person in this country that lives have been saved, our NHS (National Health Service) was protected, and we have started on our cautious road to easing restrictions once and for all," he said.