WHEN she made her TV debut on Opportunity Knocks she came second to a singing Jack Russell dog.

But former Hi-De-Hi star Su Pollard will be playing second fiddle to no-one when she appears in this year's Grand Theatre fairytale extravaganza Cinderella.

Su, who has a long list of illustrious credits to her name, will be playing baroness Hard-Up.

It will be the first time she has appeared in Cinderella.

And though she is looking forward to the experience, she admits it will be a test.

"This is a bit of a change in direction for me. It is a challenge. I have never done Cinderella before and playing a Baroness — it has always been Baron Hard-Up," she said.

But she has no worries about the show, which runs from December 17 to January 18, being a success.

And that is down to the director Chris Jarvis, of CBeebies fame.

"He is directing the show and also playing the part of Buttons. He is very experienced and has done this show five or six times before.

She added: "Everyone will oooh and aaah."

But how does she feel about playing a wicked character?

"It is really cruel. I shall probably get booed out of Wales, never to return again!

"Please don't hate me for it though. I'm only acting!"

Providing experience and laughs alongside Su is one of Wales's most popular entertainment personalities, Kevin Johns, who is well-known for his panto roles at the Grand.

Cinderella will be his 11th appearance at the Grand and his 10th in succession.

"This is my second time as an ugly sister and my third time in Cinderella," he said.

"I particularly enjoy being in panto in Swansea. I'm very privileged to be doing it here.

"As long as I am asked, I will keep coming back," said Kevin, who is a radio presenter at Swansea Sound.

"The production is very traditional though it will be unusual to have a baroness. I have always worked with a baron.

"Su is going to be so fantastic as the baroness.

"I think it is good that she's come here.

"She is quite an iconic name in British comedy theatre.

"I think people will really want to see her."

Playing the part of Cinders will be Nia Jermin, aged 21, who hails from Pontlliw.

She arrives after a year-long stint in South Pacific.

The part is a big step up for her — last year she was one of the dancers in Dick Whittington.

"It is a fantastic opportunity. I can't wait," she said.

"This is the biggest part I have ever played."

And how does she feel about sharing the stage with Su and Kevin?

"It's brilliant. Both of them have got great energy. It is infectious."