PM Burnham marks 60th anniversary of Aberfan disaster

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 15:57 · Archive

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has visited Aberfan on the 60th anniversary of the 1966 disaster that killed 144 people, including 116 children.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Aberfan on 21 October to mark the 60th anniversary of the disaster, meeting survivors and families of those killed. The disaster occurred in 1966 when 150,000 tonnes of coal waste from Merthyr Vale Colliery slid down a hillside following heavy rain, engulfing Pantglas Junior School and nearby houses. About half the children from the junior school died in the tragedy, which happened on the last day before half-term.

Mr Burnham laid a floral wreath at Aberfan cemetery and visited the Aberfan Disaster Memorial Garden on the site of the former school. He met Jeff Edwards, the last survivor to be rescued from the wreckage, as well as Mair Morgan, the last surviving teacher. He also spoke to David Davies, chairman of the Aberfan Memorial Charity.

Addressing the community at a nearby centre, Mr Burnham described the event as 'one of the most horrifying tragedies this country has ever seen' and said coal tip safety is of 'critical importance'. He acknowledged that the authorities did not treat Aberfan properly at the time. The anniversary comes amid broader concerns about preventing similar tragedies today.

How it is being reported

• Burnham pays tribute to Aberfan victims ahead of 60th anniversaryAn entire generation was almost wiped out when 150,000 tonnes of coal waste slid down the hillside before engulfing Pantglas Junior School in 1966.Evening Standard · 19 Oct, 15:30
• Aberfan disaster is among 'most horrifying tragedies UK has ever seen' says Andy BurnhamAndy Burnham laid a wreath in Aberfan on the 60th anniversary of the disaster which claimed 144 lives, including 116 children - and said coal mine safety is of 'critical importance'The Mirror · 19 Oct, 14:20

In this story: Andy Burnham · Aberfan · Pantglas Junior School · Merthyr Vale Colliery · Jeff Edwards · Mair Morgan

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