On the 60th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster, tributes have been paid to David Beynon, a deputy headteacher who died while shielding pupils from the catastrophic landslide that struck the Welsh village. Beynon, 47, was found holding five children in his arms, using his body to protect them from the force of the avalanche that engulfed the school.

A rescuer who discovered Beynon described him clutching the children closely, as though shielding them from harm. Beynon, who was also a rugby player, demonstrated remarkable courage in the face of overwhelming danger.

His son, Philip Beynon, now 73, reflected on his father’s actions and the impact of the tragedy. He said his father likely heard the landslide approaching and instinctively drew the terrified children toward him, wrapping his arms around them in an attempt to safeguard them. Despite his efforts, all those he embraced were buried by the debris.

Philip, who was only 13 at the time, said he was told that his father was found with children tightly held in his embrace, a testament to his devotion as a teacher. The family’s modesty has contributed to a relative lack of public recognition for Beynon’s bravery until now.

The Aberfan disaster, which claimed the lives of 116 children and 28 adults in 1966, remains one of the most devastating tragedies in Wales’ history. The story of Beynon’s sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the courage displayed by many during the calamity.