But from the darkness have sprung snapshots of joy and triumph. Here are some photos which capture a year like no other in Yorkshire and further afield.
5. Clap for Carers
Staff at Leeds General Infirmary take part in Clap For Carers in May. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
6. 2D football fans
Cardboard cutouts of Leeds fans fill the empty stands at Elland Road, with supporters unable to attend matches due to coronavirus restrictions.
7. 'Not all heroes wear capes'
Eight-year-old Grace Liggatt of Chesterfield, Derbyshire, puts up hearts in her window with names of key workers to say thank you for their hard work. Photo: Tom Maddick/SWNS
8. Is my son next?
Woman holds up a poignant sign at a Black Lives Matter demonstration in Devonshire Green, Sheffield. Photo: Bruce Rollinson