Prime minister visits Aberfan ahead of 60th anniversary of 'horrifying tragedy'
Summary
Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Aberfan to mark the 60th anniversary of a disaster where a collapsed coal waste pile destroyed a school and nearby homes, killing 144 people, mostly children. He met survivors, local residents, and schoolchildren to remember the tragedy and discussed the importance of safety at coal tip sites.Key Facts
- The Aberfan disaster happened on October 21, 1966, killing 116 children and 28 adults.
- A colliery spoil tip, which is a pile of mining waste, collapsed onto Pantglas Primary School and nearby houses.
- Prime Minister Burnham visited the memorial garden and community center in Aberfan ahead of the 60th anniversary.
- Burnham met Jeff Edwards, one of the last children rescued from the disaster, and local officials.
- He said the community showed great strength and noted the disaster was not properly handled by authorities.
- The UK government is providing around £140 million to Wales to improve coal tip safety.
- An organization is being set up to manage risks around coal waste piles in Wales and across the UK.
- King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and Prince William plan to visit Aberfan on the anniversary to pay respects.
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