Aberfan Marks 60 Years Since Disaster

Prince William visited Ynysowen Community Primary School, unveiling a new sculpture. He had previously met survivors in 2023, alongside the Princess of Wales.

The disaster, on October 21, 1966, saw coal waste engulf Pantglas Junior School and nearby houses. Approximately half the children from the junior school died in the tragedy.

Coal bosses had received warnings about 'flowslides' before the disaster. A 76-day public inquiry followed, yet no one faced prosecution or lost a job.

Local residents used £150,000 from a memorial fund to pay for the clean-up. This sum was returned only after decades of campaigning.

Queen Elizabeth II visited Aberfan eight days after the tragedy, returning three more times. Her decision not to visit sooner was one of the greatest regrets of her reign.

Rona Price, a former policewoman who attended the scene, met the royals today. Jeff Edwards, an Aberfan survivor, spoke at the community centre.

Stephen Kinnock stated, "The community of Aberfan suffered a loss so profound that it remains etched into the memory of our nation. Today, we remember each and every one of them. Aberfan is a community that has shown extraordinary strength, resilience and dignity in the face of such devastating tragedy, coming together time and again to ensure that all who were lost there are never forgotten."

Concerns about coal tip safety persist. A report indicates around one in ten families in Wales live near 'high risk' coal tips, sites becoming increasingly unsafe due to climate change.

In November 2024, Storm Bert caused a 'washout of a former coal tip' in Cwmtillery, Blaenau Gwent, forcing residents to evacuate.

Cherry Vann offered, "Today, as we commemorate that heartbreaking day, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of a community which has shown, in face of unbearable suffering, the most inspiring resilience and strength. We offer our prayers for all across Wales and beyond who are touched by today’s commemorations."