THE bells of St Mary Magdalene Church, Taunton, will ring out at 10am next Wednesday, September 9, when the Queen becomes this country's longest ever reigning monarch.

St Mary's has a 350-year tradition of ringing out the bells for important state and local events.

Queen Elizabeth II will overtake Queen Victoria's 63 years 216 days, but she is still some way behind King Sohuza of Swaziland, who clocked up 82 years 254 days from 1899 to 1982.

Are you doing anything to celebrate the Queen's landmark occasion? Let us know by calling 01823-365100 or e-mail phil.hill@countygazette.co.uk