But despite the lockdowns and disruption, our photographers continued to work hard to bring you the news and pictures of an incredibly difficult year.
Here, Neil Cross selects his favourite images of 2020, starting with part I, January to June.
1.
Speedo Mick walking from John O'Groats to Land's End wearing just his swimming trunks
2.
Cake baker Rosie Dummer with Freddie Mercury's head from her life size creation
3.
Drew Noon and Anna Miller get romantic in front of the Heartbeat art installation at Preston Market
4.
Busy Bees Nursery book day at Ashton Park