NICK Mitchell will be intrigued to discover whether Dance Floor King can take another step forward when he attempts to stretch his winning streak in the 32RedSport.com Handicap Chase at Sandown tomorrow.

The eight-year-old has made the right moves this season, winning all his three starts at Towcester, Wincanton and Ascot, but this is a more difficult challenge.

Not only is he taking a hike in grade, but he is up against more experienced performers and runs from 3lb out of the handicap. However, Mitchell feels he just has to take this opportunity.

''It would have been nice if the top horse hadn't run and he'd be in the handicap, but that aside he's in good form,'' said the Piddletrenthide handler.

''With his jumping and everything I'm hoping he'll appreciate Sandown, but it is another step up for him.

''I know it's only slightly, but it's never nice to run them out of the handicap and races are few and far between.

''He's done everything we've asked him to do so far. He's up against some real, seasoned handicappers, but with his style of running he runs like a seasoned handicapper.

''If he was a six-year-old I probably wouldn't run, but he's an eight-year-old. He's an older horse, he's a strong horse. We'll just see and just wait for the bubble to burst really.

''He's settled in his races now. He doesn't have to blaze off in front like he did in his first two races this season.''