Flaming Spear is set to make the step up to Group Three level in the Pinsent Masons LLP Acomb Stakes at York later this month.

The Kevin Ryan-trained colt made quite a splash when running out a two-and-three-quarter-length winner of a maiden on the Knavesmire in July, earning quotes as low as 20-1 for next year's Qipco 2000 Guineas.

He will now step up in trip to seven furlongs in the August 20 event at York, with David Redvers, racing manager for part-owners Qatar Racing, pointing to the Dubai Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket on October 17 as the long-term aim.

"He will run in the Acomb Stakes at York," he said. "The target for him is the Dewhurst in the autumn.

"He's in very good nick and has matured mentally and physically since his first outing. 

"Jamie (Spencer) sat on him early last week and he was grinning afterwards."