3:19pm Monday 11th August 2008
By Harry Miller
A former receptionist will be setting computer game enthusiasts’ hearts aflutter as the new face of Tomb Raider treasure hunter Lara Croft.
Agile Alison Carroll from Shirley is set for world stardom as she follows in the footsteps of Oscar-winning actress, Angelina Jolie and model Nell McAndrew to become the new face of the gaming icon.
Unlike her predecessors the 23-year-old former receptionist does not come from a modelling background, but with 12 years' experience as a professional Great Britain gymnast, she is completely at ease at the thought of appearing in front of Lara Croft fans.
She is due to undertake a series of courses which will include SAS survival, combat and semi-automatic weapon firing courses in Eastern Europe, and a crash course in world archaeology.
Miss Carroll said: “I love Croydon and it’ll always have a place in my heart.
"I have moved from my hometown of Shirley now but I think that I’ll always love Croydon.
"I went to school at Edenham High and was in almost all of the sports clubs. Croydon is where I began my gymnastics. The borough will always be special to me.
“I think that Croydon’s bid to become London’s third city will be a massive boost to the borough. It is a brilliant idea and I hope that it is something that happens soon.“
“I do miss the place since I have moved especially my friends and the nightlife but I am looking forward to all the travelling I will be doing playing Lara Croft.“
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