The Watford Observer is again delighted to be teaming up with its friends at Watford Museum to take another journey back to the past to recall the key events and dates that helped shape the town’s future.

The 23rd part of '50 events and dates that shaped Watford' looks back to when the King visited town.

The museum's volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: "On Saturday, July 17, 1909, King Edward VII drove through Watford’s High Street on his way to visit the Earl of Clarendon at the Grove. He was greeted by a hastily decorated town, which as the Watford Observer reported was 'ablaze with flags and bunting' and as the King’s car passed 'hats and handkerchiefs were waved vigorously'.

"Originally, the royal visit to The Grove was going to be a private occasion but on the Thursday the King consented to receive an address from the town. This was presented to him on his arrival at the Grove.

Watford Observer:

The King attending Watford Parish Church

"On the Sunday the King attended Divine service at Watford Parish Church and later that day paid a visit to Lord and Lady Essex at Cassiobury House.

"The King returned though Watford on Monday on his journey back to Buckingham Palace."

Watford Museum is open Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. No booking is necessary but Covid prevention measures are still in place to keep visitors safe.