Why is Big Ben falling silent?
The famous chimes of Big Ben are to fall silent. Britain's most famous clock is in dire need of an overhaul. And for Radio Four that's a problem, how should it begin its bulletins at six and midnight? The answer has been a nationwide search of the nation's clocktowers to find a substitute set of bongs. David Sillito lends an ear. Ian Westworth, one of Big Ben's three mechanics gives his take on the famous clock joined by one writer who was inspired by the tower, Lord Michael Dobbs of House of Cards fame. (Image:Elizabeth Tower, credit: Reuters)