With the clock tower dismantled in pieces, will Ben's bells be ready to chime on New Year?

As the multi-million pound restoration of a global icon begins, historian Anna Keay follows the three clockmakers taking apart the giant mechanism for the first time in its history

After six long years, London's most iconic landmark has finally been restored to its original glory, brightening the skyline once more with its sparkling colours, golden shine and spotless masonry