Six-time Group 1 winner St Nicholas Abbey is making progress after having colic surgery yesterday.

St Nicholas Abbey was recovering from a career-ending pastern injury, which occurred during trackwork last Tuesday, when he suffered a very bad bout of colic that forced the brave horse to undergo another operation.

The worst was feared, once again, for the son of Montjeu but according to a statement released by owners Coolmore this morning he has made positive progress in the last twenty-four hours.

“St Nicholas Abbey has made positive progress and is in good form today following yesterday’s colic surgery,” the statement said.

“The colic was caused by caecal shutdown (equivalent to the human appendix), which is an extremely painful condition.

“His treatment means he cannot have food for a prolonged period and he will get parentral nutrition instead (intravenous nutrition) to fulfill his daily requirements.

“All surgeons are pleased with the progress he is making with his pastern reconstruction and he is taking weight on the leg well.”

St Nicholas Abbey finished his career as the highest prize money-earner in the history of British and Irish racing after three wins in the Group 1 Coronation Cup (2423m) as well as victories in the 2009 Racing Post Trophy (1609m), 2011 Breeders’ Cup Turf and 2013 Dubai Sheema Classic (2410m).

Before his injury he was the clear favourite for the Group 1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2413m) that was run at Ascot on Sunday morning (AEST time).

French superstar Cirrus Des Aigles was installed as favourite after the withdrawal of St Nicholas Abbey but he was no match for German-trained Novellist who scored a five length victory in course record time.

Melbourne Cup hopeful Red Cadeaux finished sixth, more than ten lengths behind the winner.