The last two weeks have shown that the coronavirus pandemic is still well and truly with us and is likely to affect our lives for many months to come.

Infection rates have risen alarmingly, compared to just a few weeks ago.

And that has prompted the Government to impose a whole range of measures to try to bring the virus under control.

More than 16 million people in Britain are now living under heightened Covid-19 restrictions with bans on visiting friends and family extended across much of North West England.

Pubs now have to close at 10pm, which will hit the hospitality industry, while students at many universities are in lockdown.

The Government is increasing its levels of intervention into people’s lives and backing that up with further enforcement measures.

For a while, as infection rates fell and restrictions were eased, it seemed like life was becoming easier. But an atmosphere of further uncertainty and the imposition of more rules are bound to cause anxiety to many people.

It’s something we are going to have to live with. But it’s vital everyone tries to remain as positive as possible in these challenging days.

Take some time to think about and be thankful for some of the good things in life. Many have managed to get away on holiday for a period. Think back on those days and enjoy the memories.

The weather has been fairly good this year and, living in Cumbria, there should still be plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the gorgeous autumnal colours.

Sport has returned and, while you can’t go along to the ground to support them, there is still the excitement of following the fortunes of your favourite team.

Many people are spending more time at home. Take advantage of that. There is more time to spend with those with whom you live; to tackle a more ambitious DIY project; fantastic local food and drink to buy and enjoy; great books to read and music at our fingertips like never before. One way to think about restrictions is not as a negative and about what you can’t do but as a collective way of helping to keep a community safe. Life is challenging at the moment but trying to focus on the positives can help.