Breton Rock narrowly denied Gregorian back-to-back victories in a pulsating climax to the Betfred Hungerford Stakes at Newbury.

Gregorian was sent on his way the 13-8 favourite and stayed on stoutly once he gained a definite advantage a furlong and a half from home in the hands of William Buick, but he became embroiled in an absorbing tussle with Breton Rock.

David Simcock's 3-1 chance kept finding a little bit more when it mattered and seized the Group Two contest by a short head.

Successful jockey Martin Lane said: "The one thing he has is real heart, he really tries. He's got a really nice action, the softer the better for him."

Simcock added: "The race cut up quite nicely and he got his conditions, which was really important.

"He was better after we gelded him. He was always very colty. He's been very straightforward to deal with but I wouldn't risk him on anything other than the softer side of good."

The Newmarket handler continued: "There's a good programme for seven-furlong horses in the autumn, whereas there isn't in the summer.

"There was this, the Park Stakes (Doncaster) and then we'll probably have a crack at the Foret (Longchamp)."