Carruthers made the most of having his sights lowered to claim a confidence-boosting victory at Ffos Las yesterday.

The nine-year-old, from Mark Bradstock’s Letcombe Bassett stables, near Wantage, has struggled to make an impact since his fairy-tale triumph in last year’s Hennessy Gold Cup.

But, dropped 9lbs by the handicapper after disappointing when defending his crown at Newbury at the start of the month, he made the most of being eligible to run in the Professional Security Management Handicap Chase at the Welsh track.

Partnered by talented amateur rider Nico de Boinville, the 15-8 favourite pulled clear in the heavy ground to score by 15 lengths from Benheir.

Bradstock’s wife, Sara, said: “We’re absolutely delighted and that is exactly what the horse needed.

“Hopefully that will help him get his confidence in himself back.”