A man who died after a sign fell at a Christian festival was a respected pastor described as “a loving husband” and “a devoted and caring father,” his church has said.
Robert Guanco, 41, of Eastbourne, was named in a tribute from the Jesus Living Water Church Eastbourne as wellwishers set up a GoFundMe page to help his family.
Six other people were also injured, including four who were taken to hospital, after the incident at the Big Church Festival (BCF) off Washington Road near Steyning, West Sussex, on Friday afternoon.
Church tribute to 'beloved pastor'
Festivalgoers said they rushed to lift a heavy sign which read “Everything’s Unmissable” that had toppled in the wind, witnesses said.
Mr Guanco was described as “our beloved pastor Robert” in a tribute from his church on Sunday.
It said: “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.”
“His life, his faith, his love and his service to God will never be forgotten.”
It also said: “To all friends, family, church members and everyone who knew and loved pastor Robert,
“It is with a deeply heavy heart that we share the sad news that our beloved pastor Robert passed away yesterday, 28th August 2026.
“We are mourning, grieving, praying and trusting in the Lord during this incredibly difficult time.
“There are many things we may never fully understand and our hearts may struggle to make sense of what has happened. Yet, even in our deepest sorrow, we continue to trust in the sovereignty of God.”
GoFundMe page for family
It is hoped the GoFundMe page will help his family as they deal with their “unimaginable loss” and “the practical and financial challenges that come with such an unexpected tragedy,” the organisers said.
Describing him as “more than a pastor,” the page states: “He was a beloved son, cherished brother, loving husband, a great father to Ellie and faithful servant of God.
“He was also a good friend, mentor and a blessing to so many people whose lives he touched.
“His life reflected humility, faith, love, compassion and service. Through his ministry, kindness, prayers and encouragement, he touched many lives.
“His passing is deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Festival cancelled after incident
Organisers of the BCF, billed as the UK’s biggest Christian festival, said they were “heartbroken” and “devastated by the serious incident” as it cancelled the rest of the event.
It had opened on Friday and had been due to run until Sunday. BCF, which includes worship, music and performances, first took place in 2009.
Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally said she was “sad and shocked,” stating: “I pray for his family, friends and loved ones as they grieve. 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.”
Festivalgoers were alerted to the tragedy when God TV announced that “due to unforeseen circumstances” the BCF livestream had been paused.
The incident has been reported to the Health and Safety Executive and local authority, Sussex Police have said.
Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the man who died and all others who have been affected by this tragic incident.”
He urged anyone who was among the “thousands of people” who were on site on Friday that has any information or video footage to come forward.
