King Charles, Prince William and Queen Camilla joined members of the community in Aberfan to mark the 60th anniversary of the tragedy, paying tribute to the 144 people who died when a coal-waste tip collapsed onto a school and nearby homes in the Welsh village in 1966.
The royal visit began at Aberfan Memorial Garden, which stands on the site of the former Pantglas Junior School.
The school was struck when a colliery waste tip collapsed onto the village, killing 109 children and five teachers.
A short prayer was held before those gathered observed a moment of silence.
King Charles and Prince William each laid a wreath, while Queen Camilla placed a posy in memory of the victims.
The royal family was accompanied by survivors of the tragedy and those who have witnessed its enduring impact on the community.
On October 21, 1966, a coal-waste tip from Merthyr Vale Colliery collapsed down the mountainside, burying Pantglas School, 20 homes and a farm in Aberfan.
The disaster was triggered by water that had built up in a stream beneath the tip.
The tragedy claimed 144 lives, including 116 children, most aged between seven and 10. Around half of Pantglas School’s pupils died, as did five of their teachers.
It was the final day of term before the half-term holiday.
Remembered as one of modern Wales’ most devastating tragedies, the Aberfan disaster has left a lasting mark on the community.
After visiting the Memorial Garden, the King, Queen Camilla and Prince William continued to the local community centre, where they greeted residents on their walk.
