Banks used to do it for a fee (10-20 quid), but were losing too much money. The only way to do it not is through one of the booking shops who charge a massive 10 - 20% of the value. I know that Lloyds do a same day clearance system, if it is a personal cheque and you are depositing it in a Lloyds personal account. They call it real time banking.
It's all about profit nowadays. It is quicker with internet banking.
Colin