As the country battles with another national coronavirus lockdown, the streets of Northampton town centre have been left eerily quiet.
From the usually bustling Abington Street, to Market Square, residents are few and far between as the national ‘stay at home’ message is heard.
Although non-essential shops have been ordered to close, stores - and market stalls - selling essential items are allowed to remain open, although, for some, customers are becoming a rarity.
Eamonn Fitzpatrick, who has run the market’s fruit stall for 57 years, said: “It’s terrible. It’s a waste of time, energy and money.
“It’s a ghost town down here and we’re standing around playing spot the customer.
“People just aren’t coming into town. It really is desperate.
“This lockdown is far worse than any of the others. I don’t think the weather is helping and the town centre is on its knees, so there is nothing to come in for.”
The fruit stall previously opened six days a week, but from next week it will now only be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday due to the lack of business.
Other essential shops in the town centre remain open and some businesses are operating a click and collect service. Visit our lockdown three business guide to find out more.
Below are pictures of Northampton town centre during the third lockdown, taken on Friday (January 8).
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Long-standing stall holder Eammon Fitzpatrick says it is like a 'ghost town'. Photo: Leila Coker.
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The market, however, was almost deserted as non-essential traders are not allowed to be in attendance. Photo: Leila Coker.
