The future of the East Cowes umbrella tree still looks uncertain as the Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads look for alternative options.

The battle to save the tree, which has been supported by Dame Judi Dench, Alan Titchmarsh and Chris Packham, began when council bosses said it was infected with a fungus.

Tree campaigners released an independent report which said the tree posed no immediate risk to the public.

Carried out by English Heritage tree surgeon Peter Abraham, it was estimated the tree was more than 112 years old.

However, the council said the study misidentified the fungus on the tree.

An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said: “The fungi on the tree is inaccurately identified by the report writer as ganoderma lucidium, when in fact it is inonotus hispidus.

“Therefore, it is not considered necessary to comment further on the report by the member of public.”

The bracket fungus, inonotus hispidus, undermines the strength of the tree.

Island Roads said the tree needed to be removed in the interests of safety.

The council have said they are currently liaising with Island Roads.

"The local authority plans to meet with the local member and parish council to discuss the matters further," the spokesperson added.