The axeing of a tree in Oxford University grounds has been put on hold following a protest by students and dons.

Protesters said they had not been told or consulted about the proposal to fell the 60-year-old copper beech tree outside the entrance to Oxford University's department of physiology, in the science area off South Parks Road, because of building work due to start nearby.

Following the demonstration by about a dozen academics and students from the department, a university marshal decided the tree would not be taken down that morning as planned, so consultation with protesters could take place.

Student Sian Alexander, 23, said there was no need for the tree to be removed.

"It's an old and much-loved tree," she said. "We're hoping to prevent it being taken down or at least engage in some kind of consultation."

Professor of Neuroscience, John Stein, added: "It is one of the most important trees in Oxford because it is one of the few living things in the science area."

The protest caused the university to rethink the felling of the tree.

A spokesman said: "The university is currently reviewing its position regarding a tree on university owned land on South Parks Road in the light of concerns voiced by some members.

"There are no immediate plans to remove the tree, and any decision on its future will be made following consultation with the local authority and interested parties".