On October 21st, 1966, the country of Wales was hit by a terrible
tragedy when a colliery spoil tip in the mining village of Aberfan
slid down on to Pantglas Junior School and a row of houses, killing
116 children and 28 adults. As a small boy in primary school myself
at the time, this had a deep effect upon me. I still remember
vividly the prayers in assembly and the harrowing shots on the
television screen. Many of those who died were in the same age group
as myself and ever since, I have found it difficult to talk about
without being overcome by emotion, as I reflect on the horror of
what happened. Today, my thoughts and prayers are with the people of
Aberfan, many of whom still bear the psychological and emotional
scars from the events of 55 years ago.
Colin McIlwaine.