Nicholas was born and brought up in the Sussex coastal resort of Eastbourne, but with strong family links to both London and Yorkshire.

He attended the Guildford School of Acting, graduating in 1983. He has worked all across the industry, appearing as a semi-regular in London's Burning; repeat appearances in The Bill; feature films including Ken Loach's "Ladybird Ladybird"; Stagefighting and Acting appearances at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; touring productions; Commercials; Photographic modelling; and a 58 date touring pantomime, to name but a few.

An accomplished Stagefighter and Fencer, he was a former Actor Member of the defunct Society of British Fight Directors.