2021 has once again been dominated by the coronavirus crisis, with lockdowns, restrictions, working from home, furlough, social distancing and many events cancelled.

However, there was lots happening away from Covid-19 in our part of the world.

Here is the first of a two part-review reflecting on the past 12 months, featuring stories that hit the headlines between January and June 2021.

January

Lowestoft Journal: In January the junction of Durban Road with Waveney Drive was closed for two weeks for preparatory work as trial holes for utilities were checked.In January the junction of Durban Road with Waveney Drive was closed for two weeks for preparatory work as trial holes for utilities were checked. (Image: Mick Howes)

Preparatory work started on the Gull Wing Bridge project that is hoped to reduce traffic congestion in Lowestoft.

Consultation launches on the North of Lowestoft Garden Village plan for 1300 homes.

February

Lowestoft Journal: One of Lowestoft's car parks in the snow in February 2021.One of Lowestoft's car parks in the snow in February 2021. (Image: Mick Howes)

Snow and Storm Darcy hits the east coast.

Lowestoft Journal: Lowestoft prom in the snow in February 2021.Lowestoft prom in the snow in February 2021. (Image: Mick Howes)

Dave the hedgehog was stolen from Hog Hotel in Pakefield, but was later found in a ditch.

Lowestoft Journal: The distinctive 'Dave the hedgehog' sculpture which was stolen from the front of the Hog Hotel, in London Road, Pakefield.The distinctive 'Dave the hedgehog' sculpture which was stolen from the front of the Hog Hotel, in London Road, Pakefield. (Image: The Hog Hotel)

March

Designs for new beach huts divide opinion.

Yarnbombing began to appear on top of Royal Mail letterboxes.

Lowestoft Journal: A knitted Prince Philip with his flag flying at half mast.A knitted Prince Philip with his flag flying at half mast. (Image: Jane Tebutt)

April

With the death of Prince Philip, memories of Lowestoft visits were recalled.

McDonald's open a new drive-through restaurant in Mill Road but there is dismay as the London Road North town centre restaurant is closed.

May

Princess Anne visited Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve.

Lowestoft Journal: Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve in Lowestoft.Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve in Lowestoft. (Image: Mick Howes)

Many Bird Boxes installed at Kensington Gardens as part of First Light event.

June

Ground-breaking ceremony marks the start of construction of vital flood protection.

Lowestoft Journal: The start of construction works to reduce the risk of flooding in Lowestoft is marked.The start of construction works to reduce the risk of flooding in Lowestoft is marked. (Image: Warren Page/Pagepix Ltd)

The bailey bridge crossing the River Blyth and connecting Southwold with Walberswick was closed for an extended time for maintenance.

Part 2 of our review of the year will feature in next week's Journal and will be online on New Year's Day.