Hugh Pollard (actor)

Hugh Pollard (born 1975)^[1] is a former British child actor, most recognised for his role as Simon in the Children's BBC show Simon and the Witch (1987–88).^[2] He is also known for playing the role of Hansel, in the movie Hansel and Gretel (1987).

Pollard attended the Christ Church C of E School in Finchley, North London, before leaving in 1992. He graduated from the University of Kent, with a degree in radio, film and television. Following his role in Simon and the Witch,^[3] Hugh won the role as Hansel in the film Hansel and Gretel (1987). His role in the film saw him team up with Simon and the Witch co-star Nicola Stapleton, who played Gretel.^[4]

Pollard gave up his acting career, working briefly as a broadcaster for the BBC before gaining a job as a video tape operator. This job has taken him across the world, and involves him creating slow motion replays in sporting events, that include both the Olympics and Wimbledon.^[5] He married Nicola Skyes in 1999, and has lived on the shore off Grafham Water, Cambridgeshire since August 2001.