A KIND-HEARTED computer whizz-kid from Coppull has just got back from a dream date with his screen idol - and all in the aid of charity!

Self-employed Simon Heaton, 25, pictured, from Clancutt Lane, hot-footed it back from London this week after spending last Thursday evening with Nell McAndrew, AKA computer-babe Lara Croft from the popular shoot 'em up game, Tomb Raider.

Simon won the opportunity to spend an evening with the gorgeous Nell after he generously entered a Comic Relief auction while browsing on the Internet.

Simon explained: "I was browsing on the net when I saw the chance to take part in an auction for Comic Relief.

"I had bid £820 and next thing, my name was flashing on the computer screen saying I was the winner!

"I had no idea what the prize was, and when I found out I was going on a date with Lara Croft I was absolutely thrilled."

Simon and Nell spent the evening at a top Italian restaurant in the capital before going paintballing.

Simon said: "Nell was really down to earth and we both had a real good laugh together."

In fact, they both got on so well, Simon maybe accompanying Nell to America where she is starring at a computer game exhibition in Los Angeles.

Simon is no stranger when it comes to helping people and supporting good causes.

All his friends describe him as very kind, considerate and generous and has helped his family and friends out in the past.

Simon said: "I do a lot for charity and for people or friends in need because I saw how selfish my life was in the past - that's why I do the things I do, I just want to help people."

Sadly, Simon's health has took a turn for the worse this year as doctors found malignant tissue in his stomach. Simon is now on a course of drugs and has to have injections once a week.

However, Simon tries not to let things get him down.

He added: "I have had my share of problems, but I want to do things for someone else - I want to give something back to people."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.