London's Big Ben falls silent for repairs

The bongs from London's Big Ben tower have fallen silent at the start of major repairs scheduled to last four years.

The midday chimes rang out for the final time on Monday and were met by cheers and applause from onlookers gathered on the green opposite the famous British landmark, reports the BBC.

It will still ring for special events such as Remembrance Sunday and New Year's Eve.

The decision to turn off it off was made to protect workers' hearing, but has sparked debate in the UK about the length of time it will be silent.

Some MPs have claimed they were not told it will be out of action for four years.

British Prime Minister Theresa May has said "it can't be right" that the famous bongs will not be heard again until 2021 and has asked for the plans to be reviewed.

The 13.7-tonne Great Bell has sounded on the hour for 157 years and last fell silent 10 years ago. The Great Clock it forms part of is to be dismantled and repaired.