Campaigners have raised £400 in a bid to prove a beloved tree does not need to be felled.

The 400-year-old cedar in All Saints' Church's grounds was due to be removed on October 4, after experts hired by the church reportedly concluded it had the incurable fungal infection Phaeolus schweinitzii.

However, the tree was given a stay of execution after locals formed a human shield for almost four hours to stop it being cut down.

A petition received over 400 signatures, with residents expressing "disapproval and support for the preservation of our community's remarkable cedar tree”.

Now, they've put their money where their mouths are with a GoFundMe hitting its £400 target in a matter of days.

Started by campaigner Paul Rubin, the fundraiser aims to protect the "majestic" tree by covering the costs for it to be comprehensively tested by another independent tree surgeon.

The fundraiser says: "This will allow us to assess the true health of the tree, ensuring that all avenues for preservation are explored before any drastic action is taken.

"With proper care and expert evaluation, there is a strong chance that this living piece of history can continue to stand for many years to come."

In a statement last week, All Saints’ Church wardens said that “sadly” the infection has caused “significant internal decay” which means the tree poses a safety risk to the public.

Campaigners were given a glimmer of hope as the church welcomed a second independent inspection to "put people's minds at ease".

While the church has promised to plant a replacement tree, activists continue to stress the historical value of the existing cedar.

The tree has stood for over 400 yearsThe tree has stood for over 400 years (Image: Laurie MacDonald) On this, the fundraiser says: "This magnificent tree has stood as a symbol of strength, beauty, and continuity for centuries, and is deeply cherished by the local community.

"Generations have admired its grandeur, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many in South Oxhey.

"While safety is, of course, paramount, we believe it would be irresponsible and heartbreaking to remove this iconic tree without carrying out thorough and in-depth inspections."

The church has dismissed speculation that the felling of the tree could make way for the development of a 5G mast.