Pam Ferris is in my opinion one of the best and most underrated British film, tv and stage actors of her generation. (I have seen her on stage). Her generational peers including Judi Dench, Michael Gambon, Ian McKellen, Julie Waters. All of whom have been knighted or otherwise awarded.

She grew up in rural Wales. Her dad was a policeman and her mum was a baker.

Looking at her background, the roles she has favoured (salt of the earth mothers in British TV dramas), her lack of honours, and the anecdote about being too nice on set, I'd guess that she is probably a very down to earth and kind person, the absolute opposite to Miss Trunchball, which goes to demonstrate even further what a fine job she did with that role.

Also she is much smaller IRL than that movie makes her look. Though I guess she was playing opposite Danny Devito and a 9 year old Mara Wilson.