Thursday 15 September 2022 05:23 PM Spontaneous applause for cleaners of central London streets before Queen's ... trends now

Street cleaners in central London received cheers and applause yesterday after cleaning Westminster's streets in preparation for the royal procession which saw the Queen's coffin moved from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall.

Cleaners in high-vis clothing were seen walking along the route during a final check and picking up any litter or obstructions which could get in the way of the procession.

Video on social media showed the Westminster City Council cleaners being greeted with applause and cheers as they walked down Whitehall yesterday in the early 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.

Members of the public will have the opportunity to say goodbye to the monarch as they file pass her coffin - but could face a wait of up to 30 hours to do so. 

Parliamentary worker Sarah Jane-Sewell captured the moment the 17 workers were praised on her phone, MyLondon reports.

Sharing the footage online, she wrote: 'Applause from the crowds breaks out for the City of Westminster workers who've been cleaning and prepping the streets this morning.'

Others on social media were quick to support the cleaning staff, and praise the crowds for recognising their hard work. 

One person said: 'Absolutely amazing work they are doing! Unsung heroes!'

A second added: 'Behind every successful event there is a team of hard workers. Glad to see them getting the recognition they deserve.'

A third said: 'That's lovely. People doing jobs like this rarely get any credit but people soon notice if they aren't there.'

Ms Jane-Sewell was also able to watch the Queen's coffin pass during the procession, after which she said: 'I'm not sure I can find the words to describe the emotions I've felt this afternoon. God Save The King.'

There was a sombre air throughout central London yesterday as tens of thousands gathered along the procession route to catch a final glimpse of Her Majesty, whose coffin was followed by members of the royal family including the new King Charles and Princes William and Harry.