Pastor killed by falling sign at festival

A pastor was killed at a Christian festival in West Sussex on Friday. Robert Guanco, 41, died after a heavy sign fell over in the wind at the Big Church Festival near Steyning.

Six other people were injured by the falling structure. Four of those required hospital treatment.

Church and Community Tributes

Robert Guanco was a pastor at Jesus the Living Water Church in Eastbourne, East Sussex. His church identified him and paid tribute. "Pastor Robert was a faithful servant of God, a loving husband to Isay, a devoted and caring father to Ellie, and a blessing to so many people whose lives he touched," a church statement said. It added his life and service would never be forgotten.

On a fundraising page, pastor Norman Ponce from Jesus the Living Water Worldwide Church called Guanco a "faithful servant of God." Ponce said the festival, meant for worship and celebration, had become an "unimaginable tragedy." He described Guanco as a beloved son, brother, husband, and father. He was also a friend and mentor. "His life reflected humility, faith, love, compassion, and service," Ponce stated.

The church has invited people to the Sovereign Harbour Community Centre in Eastbourne on Sunday. The gathering will commemorate Guanco's life and celebrate his daughter's birthday.

Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde offered condolences. He had met members of Guanco's congregation earlier in the summer. "Their energy and spirit was inspiring," Babarinde said. "This, in so many ways, is a testament to his pastorship and his commitment to his church."

Festival Cancellation and Official Responses

The Big Church Festival is the UK's biggest Christian festival. It was founded in 2009. The event at Wiston Park began on Friday and was scheduled to run until Sunday. Organisers cancelled the remainder of the festival after the fatal incident.

Organisers said they were "heartbroken" by Guanco's death. "Big Church Festival is about bringing people together," they stated. "At the moment, that community is grieving."

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, said she was "sad and shocked." She prayed for Guanco's family and friends, for those injured and their healthcare workers, and for other festival-goers and staff coming to terms with the events.

Incident Investigation

Witnesses reported that people rushed to lift the heavy sign after it fell. The sign read "Everything's Unmissable." Festival organisers said they were working with emergency services to establish the circumstances.

Sussex Police urged anyone with information to contact them. The force confirmed the Health and Safety Executive and local authority had been informed about the incident.