‘Miscommunication’ between riding school staff treated the inhabitants of Weesp, near Amsterdam, to the riveting sight of 45 galloping horses around the town centre on Tuesday, local broadcaster NH Nieuws reports.

Video footage shows the horses making their way between cars and galloping over a swing bridge as people watch in disbelief.

Normally the horses are led from the meadow to the stables by a member of staff but in his absence the gate opened to freedom, riding school owner Mischa Bleijenberg told the broadcaster.

‘The whole herd just took off into Weesp,’ he said. ‘They came back at a gallop as well, after about five minutes, miraculously without having done any damage, or hurting anyone. We are still trying to find out which of the horses took part. We know Star and Casque led the way.’