The animals, one of which appeared to be covered in blood, were wearing saddles and bridles and seen running along busy roads.

Pictures and videos of the horses were shared on social media, one of which showed a black 4x4 with blue lights following the animals.

"We are aware of a number of horses on the loose in central London," said a spokesman for London's Metropolitan Police.

"We are working with colleagues in the army to locate them," he added.

A number of prestigious army regiments have horses stabled in central London.