Cleaners from Westminster City Council were seen walking along the route in a final check and picking up any litter or which could get in the way of the procession early yesterday afternoon. Crowds that were four or five deep in some places had already gathered to await the Queen's coffin, which would be pulled past on a gun carriage dating from the Victorian era. It came as the Queen left Buckingham Palace for the last time at 2.22pm on Wednesday and was transported to lie in state for four days in Westminster Hall.