Our tribute to Matt Howells-Chivers

We were proud to recently honour the memory of our former Traction Asset Manager, Matt Howells-Chivers, who sadly and unexpectedly passed away last year.

In partnership with UKRL, we officially named their new maintenance facility in Leicester ‘The Matt Howells-Chivers Building’, a tribute to the lasting impact Matt made on our industry.

Matt played a pivotal role in delivering last year’s RHTT season and is deeply missed across GBRf, especially by his colleagues in the Asset Team. His expertise, dedication, and passion for engineering were felt by everyone who had the privilege to work with him.

Before unveiling the plaque, Matt’s wife, Aly Howells-Chivers, shared a moving tribute with guests:

“Standing here looking at this facility, it is really hard to put it into words what it means to us all, as many of you know, Matt didn’t just work in the rail industry, he lived it. And as I look around, I am reminded of how much Matt loved the shop floor. To many, this is just a maintenance facility, but to Matt, it would have been an absolute playground. I joked with him that he managed to find a career where he played with trains for real, and laughed back and told me, “That it was far more technical than that!”.

“He had a passion for engineering that was infectious and he was particularly excited about the introduction of the 99s, the technology, the power and what they presented for the future of rail and the benefits they’d have for the environment and the economy. He excitedly spoke about their arrival and looked forward to being part of the team that would put them in circulation later this year. Whilst we never imagined that he wouldn’t be here to see them roll in, there is something incredibly right and comforting about them being maintained and cared for here, the place that bears his name.

“Matt’s relationship with GBRf, UKRL and Brush Traction was something he took immense pride in. He valued the precision, the teamwork and the challenge of keeping the country moving. He was a respected engineer, a loyal colleague and a clear friend to many of you. To us, he was everything and we miss him every single day, but seeing his name here ensures his hard work, his expertise and his spirit aren’t gone, they are now a permanent part of the track.

“We’re incredibly grateful to GBRf and UKRL for facilitating this incredible memorial. Thank you so much for honouring Matt’s legacy and for remembering your colleague, and friend in such a significant, lasting way.

“The void that he has left us is huge, but our pride in him is even larger and seeing his name here in this building ensures that his legacy towards engineering excellence lives on.

“It’s an absolute honour to name this building in honour of Matt, he would be so proud, but probably a bit modest about having his own permanent part of the track.”

John Smith OBE, Chief Executive of GB Railfreight said; “As someone who played a key role in our business, it is only fitting that we name this building, where the Class 99s will be maintained, after Matt. His legacy will always live on here at GB Railfreight.”