The iconic Big Ben refurbishment has moved closer to completion with the return of the hands on the clock. /CFP

The hands, which were removed three years ago, have been restored to their original Prussian blue color as restoration craftsmen discovered that the clock hands were originally painted blue rather than black. The craftsmen have also refurbished the stonework, re-glazed the clock dials and repainted the ironwork since 2017. /CFP

The scaffolding around the Elizabeth Tower is being removed and the Big Ben is due to ring again from early next year. /CFP

According to Reuters, the restoration project cost around 80 million pounds ($111 million). /CFP