Pastor Robert Guanco Killed in Christian Festival Accident, Church Pays Tribute

A 41-year-old pastor from Eastbourne died after a large wooden sign collapsed at the Big Church Festival in West Sussex on Friday, marking a tragic end to the UK’s largest Christian gathering. Robert Guanco, a pastor at Jesus Living Water Church, was killed when the overhead sign—bearing the festival’s slogan “Everything’s Unmissable”—was blown over by strong winds. The incident also injured six others, including four who were taken to hospital. Organizers confirmed the festival, which had been running since Friday and was due to conclude Sunday, was immediately canceled following the accident.

Jesus Living Water Church described Guanco as “our beloved brother, friend and pastor” in a tribute posted online. It praised him as a faithful servant of God, a loving husband to Isay, and a devoted father to their daughter Ellie. The church’s statement also highlighted his kindness, prayers, and encouragement, saying his life reflected humility and compassion. A separate fundraiser launched to support Guanco’s family described their loss as “unimaginable.”

The Big Church Festival, founded in 2009 and billed as the UK’s biggest Christian event, attracts thousands of worshippers each year. It features live music, performances, and prayer sessions. Organizers expressed “heartbreak” over the incident and confirmed they are cooperating fully with authorities. “We are devastated by the serious incident that took place,” the festival’s leadership said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with those affected, including Pastor Guanco’s family, friends, and church community.”

Sussex Police confirmed they are investigating the collapse and have appealed for anyone with information or footage to come forward. Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh said their thoughts remain with the family and all those impacted. The Health and Safety Executive is also involved in determining the cause of the accident.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, issued a statement expressing sadness and shock over the incident. “I pray for his family, friends and loved ones as they grieve,” she said. “I pray for those receiving treatment and the healthcare workers looking after them. And I pray too for the other festivalgoers, staff and event organisers as they come to terms with these tragic events.”

The festival’s live stream was paused shortly after the accident, with God TV citing “unforeseen circumstances.” The organizers have not yet confirmed when the event might resume or if future editions will include structural safety improvements.

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