Big Ben begins 4-year silence
LONDON: The capital’s landmark Big Ben fell silent for four years in front of a reverential crowd yesterday amid an outcry over the temporary loss of a cherished symbol of stability at a time of national uncertainty.
At midday, 12 bongs from the famous bell rang out in front of 1,000 local residents, tourists and lawmakers, who came out to mark Big Ben’s longest silence in its 157-year history for extensive repair work.
The atmosphere was sombre as the hour chimes heralded the final bongs. The 12th and final bong was followed by sustained applause and cheering.
“I can see it from where I live. I do live my life by it,” said Denise Wiand, who lives across the River Thames.
“I’m 72 and I’m worried it might be the last time I actually hear them!” she said.
The bongs are a venerated marker of British life, used at the start of radio and television newscasts, and a focus for national occasions and the countdown to New Year’s Day.
The bell is housed in the Elizabeth Tower, which looms over the Houses of Parliament and is one of Britain’s most popular tourist attractions.
The bells are being stopped due to fears that prolonged exposure to the 118-decibel bongs from the 13.7-tonne Big Ben could damage the hearing of renovation workers. AFP