This scene in the centre of Liskeard this afternoon was one of relative normality – albeit with fewer people to be seen out and about. Buses were at the bus stop awaiting passengers, deliveries were being made, and people were visiting those shops that were still open.

This could all be set to change as of this evening as Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to address the nation at 8.30pm. He’s expected to announce some much stricter measures on social distancing, in response to the accelerating nature of the Covid-19 pandemic, and in response to the fact that many members of the UK public have not taken heed of encouragement, so far not enforced, to stay at home unless absoluetely necessary and to keep at a distance of 2m from other people.

The UK’s foreign secretary Dominic Raab today urged any Britons currently abroad to return home immediately or as soon as possible, reflecting the belief that borders will soon close and airlines suspend flights.

The Prime Minister’s address will be broadcast live on the BBC and available on the BBC’s online news channel.