AS the whole of the country remembered what happened in Aberfan local school children also paid their respects this morning.

Pupils of Ysgol Croesgoch, along with parents, families and friends joined together as a school community to reflect on a half century of history with a special service introduced by Headteacher Mrs Jayne Evans.

Children presented readings, poems and musical items, with Year 5 and 6 pupils performing a piece of music which they had composed to commemorate fifty years since the tragic events at Aberfan.

Mrs Marion Raymond, a teacher at Ysgol Croesgoch was in Aberfan fifty years ago as part of the rescue effort. During the service her memories were shared with pupils, staff and invited guests.

Following the service a tree was planted in the school grounds by Mrs Raymond and pupils Riko Miles and Gwen Hughes. 144 daffodil bulbs were also planted to represent each life lost at Aberfan.