Their Majesties The King and Queen, and His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, to visit Aberfan in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the tragic disaster.

The King, Queen and Prince of Wales will visit Aberfan, Merthyr Tydfil, on Wednesday 21 October, marking 60 years since the Aberfan disaster to pay tribute to the lives lost that day.

On 21 October 1966, 144 people – including 116 children – tragically lost their lives when a spoil tip slid down a mountain, engulfing Pantglas School and some of the surrounding houses.

At the Aberfan Memorial Garden, which stands on the site of Pantglas School, where 109 children and 5 teachers died, Members of the Royal Family will pay their respects in memory of those tragically taken away.

Their Majesties and His Royal Highness will also attend Aberfan & Merthyr Vale Community Centre, spending time with survivors, bereaved parents, former pupils, and siblings of those who died, coming together and remembering all who were lost.

The Prince of Wales will then visit Ynysowen Community Primary School to meet with students and teachers involved in projects to mark the anniversary and unveil The Aberfan Memorial Tree.

Councillor Brent Carter, Leader of Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council, said: “On the 21^st October 1966 the village of Aberfan suffered unimaginable loss. We know this anniversary will be specifically poignant and people will come from far and wide to pay their respects and to reflect the lives lost that tragic day.

“It is an honour and privilege to welcome Their Majesties and His Royal Highness to Merthyr Tydfil on this significant anniversary.”