The human remains found in two suitcases near the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol are believed to be those of two adult men.

It comes as the Metropolitan Police announced its officers have taken over the manhunt to find the suspect from Avon and Somerset Police.

Witnesses described how the man, who arrived at the bridge in a taxi, was challenged after the "tatty" suitcase was seen to be leaking blood. He left the scene, reportedly chased by a cyclist, and made off in the direction of Leigh Woods, leaving the suitcase behind.

The force has released two pictures of a suspect, described as a black man with a beard, wearing a black Adidas baseball cap, black jeans, a black jacket and black trainers with thick white soles and carrying a black backpack.

Detectives at the scene near Clifton Suspension BridgePA

Specialist crime scene investigators are examining the bridge, which will remain closed while enquires are carried outGetty

Avon and Somerset Police released an image of the man they want to speak toAvon and Somerset Police

Police have urged people not to approach him and to call 999 if he is sighted, but have said they are unaware of any current risk to the wider public.

Acting Bristol Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen said searches were continuing to locate the suspect.

She told BBC: "We’re still looking for him to speak with him about his presence on the bridge and the matters leading up to the suitcases being located.

"With regard to the officers and the initial attendance and then what they found inside, clearly a really horrendous discovery for them and we’re making sure we continue to support them."

Clifton Suspension Bridge (file pic)

Clifton Suspension Bridge, a Grade I listed landmark which spans the Avon Gorge, was designed by noted Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel and opened in 1864.

Carla Denyer, the Green MP for Bristol Central, said on Thursday: “I am deeply disturbed by the horrifying discovery of human remains at Clifton Suspension Bridge overnight.

“Distressing events like this are unsettling for all of us who call Bristol home and are proud of our city.”

She thanked police for their work on the case.