The Ballad of Aberfan

by James Winkworth 8T

Few forget this monstrous event,

When Tip No 7 began its descent,

A cataclysm no one could ever predict

Would cause such pain, it would inflict.

It occurred in October, a day of pain,

After 3 weeks of torrential rain,

The heap of 111 feet high

Left 116 families to weep and cry.

The Coal Board received letters to warn

Of the hundreds of lives that families would mourn,

But their arrogance and ignorance of Tip No 7

Would send many a child to the realm of Heaven.

Few forget this monstrous event,

When Tip No 7 began its descent,

A cataclysm no one could ever predict

Would cause such suffering, it would inflict.

The half term was approaching swift

And the children were working, their hard work a gift,

A child heard a distant rumble

As the coal heap began to fall and crumble.

The fear and consternation hit like a grenade

As the slurry of coal came down in a cascade,

Obliterating the school, engulfing each child

Who barely saw life before the coal piled.

The mothers wailed, and clawed at the coal,

Knowing their child was nothing, but merely a soul,

The Coal Board did but watch the crying

Not acknowledging they made this horrifying.

The Aberfan Memorial Garden was made

On the grounds of the school, where they hopelessly prayed,

So watch out for hazards, and don’t ignore warnings

As generations may not wake up in the mornings.

Few forget this monstrous event,

When Tip No 7 began its descent,

A cataclysm no one could ever predict

Would cause such pain, it would inflict.