It was a chance to say a final, emotional farewell to The Queen - and for the tens of thousands of mourners packing on to the streets of London on Monday it was a poignant pilgrimage they felt they simply had to make. Many had camped overnight to get the best spots along The Mall, and many knew the tears would be rolling throughout most of the day.
An estimated four billion people tuned in to watch the grand ceremony of the State Funeral on live feeds across the globe on Monday. But for the thousands heading to the capital, it was hugely significant to be right there, right on the front line, as The Queen made her final journey before their eyes.
They threw flowers as her coffin weaved its slow procession down The Mall, and they waved their Union Jacks with fervour. They dabbed away the tears and stood on tip toes to get a better view, while the more adventurous leapt onto bollards and railings.
