60 years on: The Aberfan disaster through the eyes of those who survived
Summary
Sixty years ago, on October 21, 1966, a coal mine waste tip collapsed in Aberfan, Wales, causing a landslide that buried a school and nearby homes. This disaster killed 144 people, including 116 children. Survivors and witnesses remember the tragic event and its impact on the community.Key Facts
- The Aberfan disaster happened on the morning of October 21, 1966.
- A coal tip (a pile of mining waste) above Aberfan collapsed and swept into Pantglas Junior School and nearby houses.
- 144 people died, including 116 children, making it one of the worst school disasters in the UK.
- The disaster occurred just before the school's half-term holiday.
- Survivors recall hearing a loud rumbling noise before the landslide struck.
- Many were trapped under debris, and rescue efforts saved some lives.
- The tragedy led to changes in safety rules at mining sites across Britain.
- The event remains an important part of Wales’ history and memory.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
