Story Highlight
– Large sign fell at Big Church Festival in West Sussex.
– Six injuries reported; four individuals hospitalized.
– Pastor Robert Guanco, 41, died at the scene.
– Craighalbert Church confirmed all its members are safe.
– Festival organizers closed event for safety, cooperating with authorities.
Full Story
Emergency services responded swiftly to an incident at the Big Church Festival, taking place at Wiston Park in West Sussex, on Friday afternoon, following reports of a substantial sign collapsing.
Tragically, the incident led to the death of a 41-year-old man from Eastbourne, later identified as Pastor Robert Guanco. Authorities confirmed that his family had been notified. Alongside this loss, five other individuals sustained injuries, with four requiring hospital treatment as a result of the event.
In the wake of the tragedy, Craighalbert Church in Cumbernauld released a statement reflecting on the incident. Approximately 40 members of the church were present at the festival, stirring widespread concern within the community.
On Saturday, church officials reassured their congregation that all attending members were safe and returning home. The church issued a statement expressing collective grief and extending support to the individuals affected. “Checking in following the tragic incident at the Big Church Festival,” the message read. “Many are seeing the story unfold on the news. Around 40 people from our church attended, and everyone is safe and now making their journeys home. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families involved and for those who will support, care for, and counsel them going forward. Pray for everyone who is currently travelling and working out alternative plans to return to Scotland.”
As the festival was set to celebrate numerous activities and performances, the incident occurred on the opening day, casting a shadow over the anticipated events. In response to the unfolding situation, festival organisers quickly moved to assure attendees that the festival was being closed “for the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.”
The festival management emphasised their collaboration with local police and the Health and Safety Executive as they sought to investigate the details surrounding the unfortunate event. A statement published on the Big Church Festival’s official website expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Pastor Guanco: “We are devastated by the serious incident that took place at Big Church Festival 2026, in which Pastor Robert Guanco tragically lost his life, and others were injured. First and foremost, all of our thoughts are with those who have been affected, their families and friends, and everyone who witnessed what happened. Particularly with the family, friends and church of Pastor Guanco as they process the immense grief of his loss.”
The organisers continued by reflecting on the necessity of terminating the festival, prioritising the safety of all involved. “Following the incident, we made the decision to bring Big Church 2026 to a close for the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved. We are working with the police, the Health and Safety Executive and others as they establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who responded, and to our teams and community for the care they have shown one another. Big Church Festival is about bringing people together. At the moment, that community is grieving. Our focus remains on those directly affected by what happened. We are heartbroken.”
Local community leaders have expressed their condolences, recognising the profound impact the incident has had on attendees and their families. The festival, which has traditionally united thousands of individuals for worship, fellowship, and celebration, now faces the daunting task of healing in the aftermath of this tragedy.
Emergency services were commended for their rapid response to the scene, which played a critical role in addressing the immediate aftermath of the incident. Local residents and festival-goers took to social media to share their prayers and support for the affected families, highlighting the spirit of community that the festival, in its essence, sought to foster.
As investigations proceed, the festival’s future remains uncertain. Stakeholders are keen to ensure that any measures necessary to prevent similar incidents occur immediately. The Health and Safety Executive is expected to release findings in due course, but until then, the focus remains on the bereaved and those who suffered injuries.
The community of Cumbernauld, where Pastor Guanco served, is coming together to support his family and church members during this difficult time. Local clergy have expressed their willingness to provide solace and comfort to those grappling with their loss.
This tragic occurrence serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of large-scale events and the inherent risks that accompany gatherings of considerable size. As the community reflects on this day, the emphasis remains on healing and supporting one another amid challenges, with prayer and solidarity resonating as cornerstones of their efforts.
The focus now shifts to remembering Pastor Robert Guanco’s legacy and ensuring that all affected receive the necessary support in the wake of this heartbreaking event.
Our Thoughts
To prevent the tragic incident at the Big Church Festival, a thorough risk assessment in accordance with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 should have been conducted prior to the event. Ensuring that all signage was securely erected and regularly inspected would have addressed potential hazards related to falling objects, as stipulated under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
Key safety lessons include the need for comprehensive crowd management and emergency response plans, including clear communication of safety procedures to attendees. Regular training for staff and volunteers on safety protocols could enhance preparedness for managing emergencies.
The incident likely breached regulations concerning the safe installation and maintenance of temporary structures, specifically the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, which mandates that all equipment used must be safe and well-maintained.
Future events should implement tighter controls and checks to ensure that structures such as signs are appropriately secured and assessed for stability, alongside ongoing safety reviews throughout the event. Enhanced coordination with local authorities and adherence to health and safety guidelines can further mitigate similar incidents.
