Archbishop of Canterbury and MP lead tributes to Eastbourne pastor who died at Christian festival
The Archbishop of Canterbury and a local MP have led tributes to a 41-year-old man from Eastbourne who died after a large sign fell at a Christian festival near Steyning.
Robert Guanco – a pastor at Jesus Living Water Church (JLWC) in Sovereign Harbour Community Centre – was named as the victim after the incident at Big Church Festival on Friday, August 28.
Sussex Police confirmed they were called in support of emergency service colleagues at 3:38pm on Friday to reports that ‘a large sign had fallen and injured a number of people’ at the site in Washington Road.
The event was later postponed and organisers released a statement saying they were ‘heartbroken’, sending their thoughts to those affected and confirming they were working with the police, the Health and Safety Executive and others in the aftermath of the incident.
Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally said she was ‘sad and shocked’ to learn the news.
She 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.”
Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde also sent his ‘deepest condolences’ to the family and friends of Mr Guanco.
In a statement issued on social media, he said: “Earlier this summer, I met members of the congregation of his church - the Jesus Living Water Church that meets at Sovereign Harbour - and their energy and spirit was inspiring. This, in so many ways, is a testament to his pastorship and his commitment to his church.
“I cannot imagine how difficult this must be for his family - Pastor Robert was a father and husband, too - and I send them and his church my most sincere condolences.”
A spokesperson for JWLC described Mr Guanco as ‘a blessing to so many people whose lives he touched’.
A GoFundMe page has been launched to support his family, and it has already raised more than £155,000. You can donate at https://gofund.me/3f44c751d.
Sussex Police said they are continuing to appeal for witnesses, urging anyone with information to report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Igloo.