We survived the Aberfan disaster as schoolchildren, but were told to never talk about it again
Summary
The Aberfan disaster in 1966 was a tragic accident where a coal waste tip collapsed onto Pantglas Junior School, killing 116 children and 28 adults. Survivors, like Janett Bickley and Denise Morgan, often kept silent about their experiences for decades but have later shared how the event shaped their lives and their work helping others.Key Facts
- On 21 October 1966, a coal waste tip collapsed in Aberfan, Wales, covering Pantglas Junior School in coal slurry.
- The disaster killed 144 people, including 116 children and 28 adults.
- Janett Bickley, an eight-year-old student, survived after being rescued by a classmate.
- Survivors were told not to talk about the disaster and often remained silent until middle age.
- Denise Morgan lost her younger sister in the disaster and struggled with grief and education but later became a head teacher.
- Many survivors found healing by finally discussing their experiences as adults.
- Some survivors dedicated their lives to education, community work, and charity in memory of those lost.
- The disaster profoundly affected the Aberfan community for decades.
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