Britain's Big Ben is marking its 150th birthday with a celebration in London. The booming bell first pealed on July 11, 1859, a few weeks after the clock in the famous tower above the Houses of Parliament began keeping time.

A projection wishing the bell a happy birthday will be broadcast on the south side of the 96-meter tower at about 10 pm (local hour).

Mike McCann, the keeper of the Great Clock, said Big Ben stands as a magnificent example of engineering, and is much-loved.

Big Ben's bongs are a cherished feature of life in London. The event is one of several honouring the 150th anniversary of the British landmark.