The son of Dansili, thought by many to be Cecil’s second string in the Group 2 contest, stepped up markedly on his previous efforts to take the famous race which is often known as the Ascot Derby.

Jockey Eddie Ahern settled the 9-1 chance just off the furious pace set by Debussy and always looked to be travelling smoothly when others were being scrubbed along.

When they entered the straight stable-mate Native Ruler took over the running but Ahern was tracking him and still looked to have a lot of horse beneath him.

He kicked 2f out taking over the lead and staying on gamely to repel the challenge from Your Old Pal and Black Bear Island inside the final furlong to score by four lengths.

After the race a delighted Cecil said: “I always thought this race was out best chance of a winner all week with one horse or other.

“Father Time clearly wants a trip, he is own brother to Passage of Time who didn’t really get 1m4f but he gets in extremely well.

“The St Leger is worth thinking about but before this I hadn’t given it much thought.

“The horses have been running very well this week without winning but it’s great when you find a winner at Royal Ascot.”

This was Cecil’s first winner at Royal Ascot for seven years and the momentous applause that greeted the Warren Place maestro when he entered the winner’s enclosure was clear evidence that the crowd were delighted to see him back where he belongs.