Behind the mask: trainee driver and author Bessie Matthews

PAUL CLIFTON fires the questions at social media sensation, the author and illustrator of children’s railway book Arlo’s Adventures, and now trainee driver with GB Railfreight

Behind the mask… Bessie Matthews

When you were growing up, what did you want to be?

My dad is a guard. Growing up, I watched him coming home happy every night, with fantastic stories. So I became a guard - lived it, loved it. Then I thought: what next? Every day is still a ‘pinch me’ moment.

 

Why a freight driver?

On freight, every day is different. Different locomotives, different freight, different routes.

How’s the training going?

We are five weeks in. Today we’ve just sat our Interim Rules Assessment. I passed. I’m buzzing, excited, terrified, all at once!

Why did you write Arlo’s Adventures There And Back?

It came from training to be a shunt driver at Freightliner. It was scenario-based learning, and I thought it would be fun for kids to learn that way.

How many copies are there?

More than 100,000. It’s been wild, it’s been mind-blowing.

You have a huge following on X. What do you make of that?

It’s surreal. And humbling. I’ve done it since I was a guard. I’ve seen people follow me, then come to the railway for a career. Social media is so beneficial.

What are you most proud of?

Not giving up. I’ve been knocked back a few times, but I’ve tried and tried again.

Greatest achievement?

Keeping myself happy. I am exactly where I want to be.

Who is the person who has influenced you most?

My dad.

What is top of your bucket list?

I want to drive a little Class 153 single-carriage train.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever had?

Look after your feet. Look after whatever you sleep on. Best shoes, best bed, you’ll be in best condition.

Career high point?

Passing out as a guard, and working my first train all on my own.

Career low point?

Not knowing what I wanted to do, when I was ready to change from being a guard. I was lost for a while.

If you could make one change to the railway, what would it be?

I’ve met a lot of people who would like to be in my position, but they’re excluded for reasons out of their control.

Last time you shed a tear?

Today, out of relief, passing the exam!

What most annoys you?

People who are cruel to animals.

Favourite food?

I love Ramen noodles.

What’s your most prized possession?

My lion toy from when I was a little girl.

Something you want to do in the future?

I want to be a fluent Welsh speaker. I’m learning it, but I’m terrible.

If you were stranded on a tropical island, what two things would you want with you

Pencil and unlimited paper, so I could draw.

First record you bought?

It was a Busted album. I was obsessed with the song Year 3000.

Favourite film?

Swiss Army Man. It’s ridiculous, but brilliant.

Introvert or extrovert?

Both. I love being with people, but I love being in my own space. I do well in my own company.

Saver or spender?

Spender.

Cats or dogs?

I love all animals, but I am obsessed with dogs.

Beer or wine?

Beer.

What book are you reading?

The Rule Book. I’m not reading anything else at the moment, I am so focused on the training. Is that a cop out?

What car do you drive?

I have a 2005 Suzuki Jimny. It is offensively ugly, bright pink, with pink carpet. I love it!

Favourite place in the UK?

Wales. Especially Lake Bala.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who could make other people happy.

The most important question: Will there be another Arlo book?

Yes! I have so many ideas. Arlo has an adventure coming.