Once assuming command, Our Vic moved readily clear of nearest pursuer Neptune Collonges, who stayed on dourly under Sam Thomas to chase him up the home straight.

Pipe's charge jumped well throughout the contest and only had to be pushed out to record a thoroughly convincing seven-length success over the 2-1 favourite.

Kingscliff made much of the running but tired markedly in the latter stages, allowing stablemate Sir Rembrandt to take third place, a further five lengths away. This was the first win in a big race for Pipe, having taken over from his father in May.

He paid tribute to Old Vic, "People have questioned his stamina, but he's bred to get six miles and he proved it here, " he said. "Timmy gave him a fantastic ride and it's brilliant for the yard. It's great for me, great for David Johnson and great for everyone who has supported me."

Earlier, Murphy rode Redemption to a surprise victory over My Way de Solzen in the John Smith's Hurdle, taking over from heavily favoured to My Way de Solzen with three fences to go. Murphy also rode Too Forward (11-2) to success in the Weatherbys Bank Handicap Chase earlier in the day.

Elsewhere See You Sometime produced a fine jumping performance to land the United House Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Ascot under Wayne Kavanagh. The 11year-old came home at 14-1 beating Zabenz by seven lengths.