There will be a deeply emotional programme aired on Welsh television this weekend. It tells the story of the Aberfan disaster, and the impact it still has on the nation 50 years after it occurred.

The catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip behind the village of Aberfan, near Merthyr Tydfil, on 21st October 1966, sent debris through the classroom of Pantglas Junior School, killing 116 children and 28 adults.

Television programme

'Aberfan — Stori'r Cantata Memoria' (9.35pm) is a special documentary programme that will also look at the background to the composition of a brand new commemorative work, commissioned by S4C, entitled 'Cantata Memoria' written by composer, Sir Karl Jenkins, and the prominent Welsh author, poet and scholar Mererid Hopwood.

The programme will also include contributions from the performers such world renowned singers Bryn Terfel and Elin Manahan Thomas as it follows the recording of a CD of the composition which also features euphonium player David Childs in a duet with Bryn Terfel.

The catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip behind the village of Aberfan, on 21st October 1966, sent debris through the classroom of Pantglas Junior School, killing 116 children and 28 adults4BR

Concert

David will also perform with the singer in a special arrangement of 'Benedictus' as part of a commemorative concert being held at the Welsh Millennium Centre in Cardiff on Saturday evening, where the world premiere of 'Cantata Memoria' will take place.

The whole concert is being recorded and will be aired on Sunday evening at 7.30pm.