Barton St David, with a population of just 600, has an unlikely claim to fame—it has historical ties to five former American presidents.

However, not all residents are keen on the latest addition to the White House, as Donald Trump's return for a second term divides opinion.

The village is famously the birthplace of Henry Adams, the great-great-grandfather of John Adams, the second president of the United States, and the great-great-great-grandfather of John Quincy Adams, the sixth president. The family's legacy extends further, with connections to Millard Fillmore, the 13th president, William Howard Taft, the 27th president, and Calvin Coolidge, the 30th president.

A plaque in the parish church commemorates the village's unique connection to American history, and visitors from the United States often come to trace their ancestry.

Rob Butt, a member of the village history club, said that Henry Adams emigrated to Braintree, Massachusetts, after once being taken to court in Barton St David for failing to pay a debt involving livestock. "Through Edith Squire, a local reverend's daughter, and her family lines, we can trace direct links to Calvin Coolidge, Millard Fillmore, and William Howard Taft," he said.

Despite the historical pride, Trump's return has sparked mixed reactions among locals. Speaking about the former president's leadership, one resident expressed concerns about his global policies. "I am very curious and nervous in so many aspects. Withdrawing the world's largest economy from key organisations is not the message I align with," they said.

Sophia James, 65, commented that Trump's presidency puts some of Britain's controversial prime ministers into perspective. "He makes some of our really bad leaders look quite moderate. I wouldn't say I entirely disagree with all his policies, but I'm watching with bated breath."

Paul Tucker, 59, noted the global influence of American politics. "America is such an influential country. What happens there has a knock-on effect here in the UK and Europe. I think many of us are treading carefully when it comes to Trump's second term."

Tourists from across the United States continue to visit the village, drawn by its presidential connections. Mr Tucker said the church visitors' book often features entries from American families. "It's nice that the village gets noticed for something so quirky, but we're quite protective of our little community."

Not all residents were critical of Trump, with one retiree, Barry Dampier, stating, "I'm waiting to see what he does. I don't agree with everything, but I think he has his reasons for what he does."

While opinions may differ on Trump, the residents of Barton St David remain proud of their unique historical link to five of America's most notable leaders, preserving a small slice of Somerset's influence on global history.