Jonbon had to dig as deep as he ever has to see off the gallant Pic d’Orhy in a thrilling renewal of the Betfair Ascot Chase.

Winning at the highest level for a 12th time, only Kauto Star now stands above him for that modern-day accolade.

Harry Cobden ensured he was going to test Jonbon’s stamina to the limit and Nicky Henderson’s star briefly looked in trouble, but Nico de Boinville knows him ever so well now and the 4-9 favourite came out on top by a length and a half.