They’re lined up by the thousands for kilometres along the south bank of the River Thames in order to say goodbye to Queen Elizabeth as she lies in state.

Many with sleeping bags, books and backpacks of food had formed a line that stretched over 4-kilometres as of 11:30 a.m. Toronto time (4:30 p.m. London time).

One man went above and beyond to pay his respects, wearing a black suit, a bowler hat, refusing to sit because he doesn’t want to get a crease in his pants before seeing the Queen.

He points out he’s a former soldier and that Elizabeth was his commander-in-chief.

One woman, originally from Guelph, Ontario, says she’s prepared to stay all night if needed.

Erin Hutchinson adds it was important to mark a moment in history and pay tribute to the only queen she and her family have known.