I think you can ask for special clearance and it does cost a few bob. It deos involve chasing the thing down rather than just letting it go through the system.
Some lenders do issue funds by way of electronic transfer and if that happened then the money is readily available - they are cleared funds. But if it was a cheque, then it does need to be cleared through the system.
I find at this time of the year ( and at Easter, Bank Holidays, Paddys day......) all of my clients want everything done yesterday. Its just not always possible to devote extra time to every case.
mf