Donald Trump saved Police Scotland a possible £1.8 million when he avoided coming to the north-east during his four-day visit to the UK last year.

Figures released under Freedom of Information showed the US President’s visit to Scotland cost £3.2m.

However, it was originally estimated it would cost Police Scotland a total of around £5m if he visited Menie Estate near Balmedie.

A protest was held at the course led by Aberdeen Trade Union Council (ATUC) while the billionaire was in the UK.

The President flew in to protests as he met the Queen at Windsor Castle, was hosted by Theresa May and played golf at Turnberry.

With thousands of officers drafted in from every force in Britain, policing July’s trip cost in excess of £14,258,966, according to police figures.

Keep up to date with the latest news with The Evening Express newsletter

Before Air Force One touched down on July 12, the combined police and security bill had been estimated to be £10m.

And with the Foreign Office costs not yet disclosed, the total price of the visit is likely to be significantly higher.

Mr Trump played golf for two days at his Turnberry resort in Ayrshire when he visited Scotland.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Williams said: “The revised total reflects the fact that his visit was confined to Turnberry.”

Mr Williams added the bill for the trip would be picked up by the UK Treasury.