THE peels of Big Ben will soon fall silent for the first time in 157 years while urgent repairs are carried out to the famous clock and tower.
The landmark is undergoing a £29m renovation project to repair the clock faces and mechanism as well as cracks in the tower's masonry and corrosion in the roof.
And one of those undertaking the work is Taunton clock mechanic Ian Westworth.
He told ITV Westcountry that it was a "once in a lifetime opportunity" that he was really looking forward to.
The clock faces will also be given a new colour scheme, with the Commons authorities eager to reflect the original design by Augustus Pugin.
The black and gold may be replaced with green and gold.
While the repairs are expected to last three years, Big Ben will be unable to chime for several months.
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