Students from Watford said they were thrilled to hear President Barack Obama talk about the importance of hard work during his three-day visit to the UK.

The five teenagers from Watford Grammar School for Boys were among a select audience of 500 young people addressed by the US president at a town hall meeting in Westminster on Saturday.

He told the potential leaders of the future assembled in the room to "reject pessimism, cynicism and know that progress is possible".

Lewis Morley, Samir Patel, Jesse Rist, Kumael Bilgrami and Nathaniel Oshunniyi attended - all 17 and sixth formers at the school in Rickmansworth Road - were seated in the audience as the president delivered his message.

Kumael Bilgrami said “Attending the town hall event was an amazing experience.

"It was great to witness his speech where he offered useful advice about our futures.

"He urged us to reject isolationism and pessimism and to look forward to new opportunities.

"It was also nice to see that we as young people have a say and that our hard work is being recognised. I was privileged to attend this meeting and it will always be a memorable event for me.”

Speaking at the event, President Obama spoke to the students about the importance of perseverance and hard work.

"If any of you begin to work on an issue that you care deeply about, don't be disappointed if a year out things haven't been completely solved.

"Don't give up and succumb to cynicism if after five years poverty has not been eradicated and prejudice is still out there somewhere and we haven't resolved all of the steps we need to take to reverse climate change", he said.

Head teacher Ian Cooksey added: "This was a great privilege for the students involved who will remember the occasion for the rest of their lives. It is clear that all of them were inspired by his example and his words."

During the event, one Watford student was reduced to tears as she came out as non-binary.

Following this, Obama headed to The Grove, where he played a round of golf with Prime Minister David Cameron.

His visit also coincided with the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations.