Irish raider Banbridge comes from the clouds to win King George VI Chase

Banbridge came from the clouds to snatch the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase from Il Est Francais.

The French raider, trained by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm, had put in a spectacular display of jumping under James Reveley and turning into straight had extended his lead back out to around 10 lengths.

However, Paul Townend on the Joseph O’Brien-trained Banbridge (7-1) was working up a real head of steam and was making ground hand over fist on the exuberant front-runner, who had been so spectacular on this card 12 months ago.

Beginning to tire, Il Est Francais got in too tight to the last, handing Banbridge a chance and when he met it on a long stride, he landed with all the momentum and went on to win by a length and three-quarters.

More to follow...

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