The retrieval of empty Champagne bottles and Union Flags strewn around the streets, as well as big screens being dismantled — this was the scene in London today as a massive clear-up followed the biggest Royal wedding in 30 years.

More than one million well-wishers flooded the capital yesterday to get a glimpse of William and Kate, but this morning there was only a handful of tourists left wandering the streets near Buckingham Palace as workmen cleared crowd barriers and litter away.

High levels of security were still in place around the Palace, Westminster Abbey and other landmarks in the capital.

Police said yesterday’s festivities passed relatively peacefully with only 55 arrests being made for crimes such as breach of the peace, assault and possessing an offensive weapon.

Scotland Yard Assistant Commissioner Lynne Owens said: “I would like to pay tribute to the officers, police staff and partners who have worked tirelessly over the last 22 weeks, to ensure that this was a joyous event.

“I would also like to thank the public for their patience and understanding during the day, especially along the route and in the parks.

“Yesterday’s success should convince people that the Met is well able to handle next year’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games.”

Technicians moved in to dismantle huge TV screens which had broadcast the day’s historic event in Green Park near the palace and at Hyde Park, where thousands enjoyed a huge outdoor party, singing along to the hymns and God Save The Queen.

Festivities were said to have gone on until the early hours behind closed doors at Buckingham Palace, and there was still a handful of press photographers who remained stationed outside the gates today hoping for any sign of movement.

The large scaffolding erected to house the photographers waiting for the crucial picture of the first Royal kiss was being taken down piece by piece.

Neil Stokell, 45, formerly from Lichfield and Birmingham but now living in London said today: “It was brilliant. We have all had such a wonderful time that more than lived up to all our expectations.”