Arabic version: ناجي من أبرفان يشارك قصة إنقاذ بطولية مع طلاب صغار

During a recent visit to Troedyrhiw Primary School, Aberfan disaster survivor Gareth Jones recounted his harrowing experience from October 21, 1966, to a group of attentive students. The visit took a poignant turn when 10-year-old Noah held up a photograph of his great-grandfather, Stephen Andrew, who had rescued Gareth during the tragic landslide that claimed the lives of 116 children and 28 adults.

According to BBC News, Gareth was stunned to recognize the man in the photograph as the very person who pulled him to safety through a classroom window as the disaster unfolded. “I was absolutely gobsmacked… that bit of the jigsaw has come together,” Gareth remarked, reflecting on the emotional connection established during the visit.

Stephen Andrew, the school caretaker, had rushed to help after the colliery spoil tip collapsed, saving many children, including Gareth. Tragically, two of Stephen’s sons were among the victims of the disaster, which devastated the small community of Aberfan. Noah expressed pride in his great-grandfather’s heroics while acknowledging the family’s tragic losses.

The pupils displayed maturity and empathy as they listened to Gareth’s story, engaging with questions about the day of the disaster and its aftermath. Teacher Hannah James noted that the proximity of Troedyrhiw to Aberfan makes the history personal for the students, allowing for deeper conversations about the impact of the tragedy.

Gareth continues to share his experience, believing it is vital for younger generations to understand the significance of the events that unfolded. He hopes that by telling his story, children will pass it down to their own families, preserving the memory of the disaster and its lasting impact on the community.