Pastor identified as victim of fatal festival sign accident
Robert Guanco, a 41-year-old pastor from Eastbourne, died after a large wooden sign fell at the Big Church festival in West Sussex. Six others were injured, four taken to hospital. His church described him as a devoted father and faithful servant of God.
The fatal incident occurred Friday when strong winds toppled an overhead wooden sign bearing the words "Everything's Unmissable" at the Big Church festival near Steyning. Fellow attendees rushed to lift the heavy structure, but Guanco, 41, suffered fatal injuries. Four of the six other injured individuals required hospital care.
Guanco served at Jesus Living Water church in Eastbourne, where he was remembered as a mentor, loving husband to Isay, and devoted father to Ellie. His congregation launched a fundraising appeal to support his family. The festival, which began in 2009 and bills itself as the UK's largest Christian gathering, was cancelled following the tragedy. Police and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating, while the Archbishop of Canterbury offered prayers for all affected.
This tragedy may resonate deeply within faith communities across the UK, as the Big Church festival draws thousands of attendees annually. The sudden loss of a young pastor could prompt broader conversations about safety protocols at outdoor religious gatherings, particularly regarding temporary structures in unpredictable weather. Families attending such events may feel heightened concern,