Veterinary surgeons treating St Nicholas Abbey in his recovery from a fractured pastern and a subsequent bout of colic say they are happy with his progress.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained six-time Group One winner had to be retired after suffering the leg injury in a training gallop when he was being prepared for the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes.

A few days after surgery, the six-year-old contracted colic and he had a further setback when it was discovered a steel weight-bearing pin in a cannon bone had broken.

"The surgeons at Fethard Equine Hospital couldn't be happier with St Nicholas Abbey's progress to date," owners Coolmore said.

"Recently fitted with a lighter and less restrictive cast, he is more mobile and is putting more confident weight on the injured leg.

"St Nicholas Abbey's appetite is good and he continues to gain weight. His blood work remains stable and his medication has been much reduced."