The new cutting edge campaign by the official Olympics hotel provider allows smartphone and tablet users to see British London 2012 hopefuls in virtual action in the reception, corridors and bedrooms of the Holiday Inn London Kensington Forum.

Athens 2004 Olympic bronze medallist windsurfer Nick Dempsey (pictured) can be seen "windsurfing" in a bedroom with a sheet and BMX world champion Shanaze Reade performs stunts on her bike in the lobby, while Paralympic world number one table tennis player Will Bayley hits balls behind reception and British long-jump record holder Chris Tomlinson jumps in a corridor.

Guests will also be able to have their picture taken with all four of the athlete "auras" and share it with friends and family through social networks.

"Standing here in the world's first augmented reality hotel and having a photo taken with my virtual self is surreal," Dempsey said.

"Being able to pick up your phone and see athletes appear as if they were right in front of you is unbelievable and a great way to get people excited about the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games."

Holiday Inn spokesman Mike Greenup said: "The augmented reality gives guests a behind the scenes look at real athletes as they prepare for London 2012 in and around the hotel."

Watch the athletes come to life here. 

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