Churches are encouraged to ring out their bells simultaneously in celebration of the beginning of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bells will ring all over the country for three minutes at 8am on 27th July 2012 as part of the London 2012 Festival, and to welcome the 205 competing nations to the UK.

David Willson, CEO of More Than Gold said, ‘This is just one more fantastic opportunity for churches to get involved with their communities and ring out their bells in celebration of the great things to come’.

Everyone can take part from ringers of church and town hall bells, through to hand bells, school bells and bicycle bells.

Martin Creed, Turner Prize-winning artist and musician said, ‘It’s by people and for people. On the morning of the opening of the Games it’s a massive signal that something is happening’.

Jon Burns, UK Director of More Than Gold said, ‘It is a once in a lifetime opportunity for churches all around the UK to come together in this way.

‘Let’s ring the bells and make a noise for the opening of the Games, for our communities, and for all that is to come’.

The ‘All the Bells’ team, working in conjunction with London 2012 Festival, are encouraging those interested in ringing bells to sign up and get involved.

To sign up go to www.allthebells.com or via www.london2012.com/festival