A man is fighting for his life after police responded to reports of a "machete fight" in central London.

Emergency services rushed to Oxford Street in the early hours of New Year's Day, with eyewitnesses claiming there was screaming and people were running away from the area

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “We were called to Oxford Street at 3:05am to reports of a fight involving machetes.

"One man has been taken to hospital with serious injuries. A crime scene remains in place, and our enquiries are ongoing."

A 25-year-old man suffered what paramedics described as a catastrophic bleed and was taken to a trauma centre.

A large crime scene has been put in place as forensic examination of the area is carried out, with Bond Street Tube station closed.

No arrests have been made so far.

A Met Police spokesperson told the outlet: “At 04:04hrs on Wednesday, 1 January police were called to Oxford Street, just outside Bond Street Underground Station, following reports of men armed with knives.

"Officers attended and at the junction of Oxford Street and South Malton Street they found a 25-year-old man with a stab wound.

“He has been taken to hospital and we await an update on his condition. An investigation is underway and a crime scene remains in place.

"At this early stage there have been no arrests. Anyone with information is asked to call 101, providing the reference 2175/01JAN," the statement added.

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.