Aberfan Disaster: Page 1

The Aberfan Disaster

Friday 21st October 1966

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The saddest day in the history of the Borough of Merthyr Tydfil was Friday 21^st October 1966, the Aberfan Disaster. In the previous 10 years there had been a good deal of correspondence between Merthyr Council and the National Coal Board concerning the tip. One Council official even wrote, ‘ You are no doubt aware that tips in Merthyr Vale tower above the Pantglas area and if they were to move a very serious situation would occur’. Over a week of heavy rainfall caused a mountain of slag to move incredibly quickly, engulfing Moy Road and Pantglas School just as junior school children were inside. The tragedy caused the sad death of 28 adults and 116 young children. It is a day that few would ever forget. The tribunal that was held afterwards concluded that ‘ Blame for the disaster rests upon the National Coal Board’.

This Aerial view was taken at 14:00hrs on the 21st October.

Just 4³/₄ after tip No 7 standing high above the village slipped and descended on Pantglas Junior School and Moy road.

Aberfan Disaster - Pen & Ink Drawing.

(Courtesy of Claire Brown)

Paul Taylor sent us this message

"Hi Alan,

Your pictures brought back so many memories.

I was a young ordinary seaman on board HMS.Tiger which was visiting Cardiff car docks on the day.

We all volunteered as a man to help.

I still have the Sunday People centre pages picture showing the village bobby carrying little Susan down the corrugated mud slide we had built to help remove the coal slag.

My picture is just over the right shoulder of the policeman (left side on picture) I am wearing a ships boiler suit,we took thousands of pounds worth of clothing,field hospital,field kitchen etc with us.

I remember the Sunday,even though it was strict chapel,the pubs opened to give everyone of us volunteers a half pint of beer as a thank you.

Thanks for putting your pics there

Aberfan still in my prayers

Paul A Taylor ex LS Royal Navy"

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