AN MP is urging churches in a town to ring their bells at 11pm on Friday to mark the UK's exit from the European Union.

Darlington MP Peter Gibson, who offered the town's bell as a stand in for Big Ben during his maiden speech in Parliament on Monday, is investigating whether an additional chime could be made, in addition to its normal peals.

He is also in discussion with Darlington Borough Council to see if the clock face can be turned red, white and blue to mark the occasion.

He said: "This is not about celebrating the division we have had for the last three years, it's more about celebrating the start of a new era.

"It's not about being anti Remainer or sticking two fingers up to people who didn't support Brexit.

"It's about saying the debate is over and a decision about democracy has been taken."

He added: "Conversations are ongoing with the council to see if something can be done.

"It would be marvellous if every church and bell could ring – it would be great to be celebrating the dawn of a new era."

Mr Gibson said he had a meeting with the council yesterday to discuss the matter.

Last night, the council was unable to comment on whether something will take place on Friday.

A campaign to get Big Ben, which is currently inactive because of a major refurbishment to Elizabeth Tower, to ring at 11pm on Friday admitted defeat on Monday.

Elsewhere there have been calls by Brexiteers to get church bells to ring out across the country.