Big bongs.. live from Rochdale

RADIO 4’s Big Ben bongs will be replaced on Christmas Eve by Rochdale town hall’s.

The Greater Manchester bells, with the same “Westminster” chimes, will be a “festive replacement” on the 6pm news.

Rochdale Borough Council leader Allen Brett said: “We are proud its famous gongs will ring out across the land.” Big Ben has been silent apart from special occasions since 2017 because of a multimillion pound refurb. Work on the Palace of Westminster’s clock and the Elizabeth Tower is due to be completed in 2021.

The BBC would usually broadcast the chimes live but has been playing a recording while the bell is out of action.