Emma Thompson Admits She Offended The Wrong Island

Oscar winning actress Emma Thompson has apologised to the Isle of Wight for a gay stoning joke - and said she actually meant the Isle of Man.

The actress was a guest on an American chat show, watched by millions, and said that they 'stone homosexuals' and 'shoot Irish and Scotsmen on the Isle of Wight' causing much upset to the residents there.

The  residents were outraged and council leader David Pugh called on her to apologise.

The 51 year old has today sent a formal apology but said she was actually talking about the Isle of Man and meant to insult the Manx laws.

Mr Pugh sent a copy of the email to 3FM which said;

'I was thrilled with your invite!! Thank you so very much for understanding that not only were my remarks on a late-night comedy show (comedy being the operative word) but I also mixed up my islands - I think it was the Isle of Mann that used to enjoy the privilege of being allowed to shoot Scotsmen if they appeared on the beach. But I was riffing and the last thing on my mind was accuracy. I truly appreciate your commonsensical and courteous responses and hope to get a visit in sometime soon.'

David Pugh went on to say;

'I was pleased with Ms Thompson’s response – showing what a good sport she is – although I’m not sure whether the Isle of Man will be! Once again our island’s profile has been raised worldwide and we are grateful to Ms Thompson for doing this, however inadvertently, and we really hope she is able to make a visit here soon.'