Church leads tributes for man killed at festival
Church leads tributes for man killed at festival
Sun, August 30, 2026 at 8:39 AM UTC
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The festival was due to run between Friday and Sunday
The man killed at a Christian festival in West Sussex on Friday has been named by his church as Robert Guanco, 41.
He was a pastor at Jesus the Living Water Church in Eastbourne, East Sussex.
Six other people were injured at the event by a falling sign at the Big Church Festival, near Steyning, four of whom were taken to hospital for treatment.
In a statement, his church 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."
The Big Church Festival, which describes itself as the UK's biggest Christian festival, was founded in 2009.
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The event at Wiston Park began on Friday and was due to continue until Sunday, but a decision was made by organisers to cancel the remainder of the event after the incident.
The Archbishop of Canterbury said she was "sad and shocked" to hear about the fatal incident.
Dame Sarah Mullally said: "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 festival goers, staff and event organisers as they come to terms with these tragic events."
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Man dies and at least six injured after sign falls at Christian festival
Christian festival 'devastated' after man's death
Related internet links
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Big Church Festival
Sussex Police
Source: “AOL Breaking”
