Royal family to visit Aberfan on 60th anniversary of disaster

King Charles III, Queen Camilla and the Prince of Wales will visit Aberfan on Wednesday to mark 60 years since a coal-waste tip engulfed a school and nearby homes, killing 144 people. [1]

A prayer and moment of silence will be held, followed by singing from Ynysowen Male Voice Choir, formed in the aftermath of the disaster. The royal family will meet survivors, bereaved parents and other community members, who are expected to share their reflections on the anniversary. [1]

On 21 October 1966, 116 children and 28 adults died when the spoil tip collapsed on to Pantglas Junior School and houses in the mining village. The royals will visit the Aberfan Memorial Garden, built on the site of the destroyed school, and meet retired emergency workers at the community centre. They will also view an exhibition about the rescue effort and spend time with former pupils, siblings of those killed and members of Aberfan Wives, a support group for mothers who lost children. [1]

Prince William is also due to visit Ynysowen Community Primary School to unveil an Aberfan Memorial Tree. The school was established to carry forward the legacy of Pantglas Junior School. [1]

The visit comes as the village remembers the disaster and the people who died, as well as those who survived and helped in the rescue. [1]