Big Ben's bongs fall silent amid renovations ding dong

Hundreds of people have gathered to watch Big Ben fall silent for controversial renovations that will last four years, the longest period in its 157-year history.

A large crowd of MPs, parliamentary workers, members of the public and tourists clapped and cheered as the Great Bell chimed at noon, before being halted to allow the work get under way.

Labour MP Stephen Pound said it was a "desperately sad" moment and demonstrated a "real poverty of imagination".

The Ealing North MP at one stage jokingly reached for a handkerchief and dabbed at his eyes as the bell tolled.

Mr Pound did concede that the backlash had become a little over the top.

He had hoped to have been joined by at least 20 "like-minded traditionalists" to witness the event, but in the end just a few watched from the grounds of the parliamentary estate.

The House of Commons Commission, which is responsible for the Palace's maintenance, has already announced it will review the timescale of the renovations, after Prime Minister Theresa May voiced her opposition to the move.

Liberal Democrat MP Tom Brake, who answers MPs' questions on the Commission's behalf, said one concession could be to allow Big Ben to chime on more special occasions.

Plans are already in place for the bell to sound on New Year's Eve and Remembrance Day.

But Big Ben could also bong on the day Britain leaves the European Union - 29 March 2019 - after calls from Eurosceptic Conservative MPs.

Mr Brake told Sky News it's "too early to say" whether Big Ben's bongs will be rung on Brexit day, as it "depends on the project".

The 13.7-tonne Great Bell was last stopped for maintenance in 2007 and before that it was halted for two years in 1983 for refurbishment.

Parliamentary officials have insisted workers' hearing would be put in jeopardy if the bell continued chiming during the renovations.

They warned that those using the 100-metre-high scaffolding around the tower could also be startled by the 118-decibel bongs.

The work will include installing a lift and repairs to the clock's hands, mechanism and pendulum.

It is expected to cost £29m, but MPs have voiced fears the bill could rocket to £60m.