A HARROW reverend recalled the solidarity of the Welsh community after the Aberfan disaster where 144 died 50 years ago today.

The disaster was caused by a colliery spoil tip collapse, burying much of the village in thousands of tonnes of debris, including Pantglas Junior School, killing 116 children.

Reverend D.Gwylfa Evans, of Eglwys yr Annibynwyr (Welsh Congressional Church) in Harrow, reflected on the events of that October day.

“It was quite a terrible disaster,” he said.

“The local community got together to help one another, and are still helping each other to get over the tragedy.”

Minister at the Welsh Church of Central London, Robert Nicholls lived near Aberfan at the time, and joined Reverend Evans in paying tribute to the village people.

“We, as the Welsh community in London, are thinking of the people of Aberfan and will be praying for them today,” he said.

Minute silences were held across Wales today to commemorate the lives lost, and Prince Charles laid a wreath at Aberfan Cemetery and met with victim’s families.

The Gwalia Male Choir, who are performing in France today, also observed a minute silence for the victims, from across the channel, and sung the traditional Welsh song Myfanwy in their memory.