Simon began his career in book production for publishers Hodder and Stoughton and then took a BA (Hons) in Theatre Arts at the Rose Bruford College (graduated 1983).

Most of his professional life has been spent in the theatre, in a number of capacities. He has lived in a Buddhist community, has two gorgeous children - Phoebe, 11 and Freddie, 9 - and now lives with his partner Fiona in Kilburn.

He has been going to opera, classical concerts and theatre for 35 years.