With next week's US election looming large, the eyes of the world are once again on Donald Trump - but did you know he visited Watford while he was President?

Five years ago, the ever controversial TV star turned political firebrand visited the area, dividing opinion amongst locals.

Donald Trump arrives at The Grove.Donald Trump arrives at The Grove. (Image: Watford Observer)

Mr Trump brought the world's attention to the town when he arrived in December 2019 for a meeting of world leaders for a NATO summit at The Grove Hotel.

Donald Trump poses with world leaders at the 2019 NATO summitDonald Trump poses with world leaders at the 2019 NATO summit His visit led to the biggest ever police operation in Hertfordshire Constabulary's history, with officers from across the country drafted in to help keep the hotel and its grounds secure.

It was all hands on deck for police ahead of the president's visitIt was all hands on deck for police ahead of the president's visit The world's media descended on Watford as the then President made a grand entrance via helicopter.

Not everyone was happy to see the divisive figure turn up on their doorstep, with protestors turning up to demonstrate against his presence.

Protestors gathered outside The GroveProtestors gathered outside The Grove Among those protesting was Shabbir Lakha, who said: “We’re here to protest outside the NATO summit and particularly against Donald Trump being invited to this country for the third time now, despite the popular opposition to him."

Mr Trump's visit led to further international headlines when he left the summit early after a spat with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Polls suggest the race for the White House is too close to call between the former President and Democrat candidate Kamala Harris ahead of next week's election.