Man dies and five injured after sign collapses at Big Church Festival

A man has died and at least five others have been injured after a large sign collapsed at Big Church Festival in West Sussex. The incident occurred on the opening day of the sold-out three-day event, which bills itself as the UK’s largest Christian music festival and was expecting approximately 40,000 attendees. Taking place at Wiston Park, this year’s festival was due to feature performances from Lauren Daigle, Elevation Rhythm, CeCe Winans, Anne Wilson, Bethel Music and For King & Country. Police were called to the site on Friday afternoon (August 28) following reports that a large sign had fallen and injured several festival-goers. Sussex Police have confirmed that a 41-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. He has since been named as Robert Guanco, a pastor at Jesus The Living Water Church in Eastbourne. 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.” South East Coast Ambulance Service later confirmed that five other people were assessed and treated at the scene, four of whom were taken to local hospitals. Two sustained more serious injuries, and two had less serious injuries. The cause of the collapse has not yet been established. Police are gathering evidence to assist Horsham District Council with a joint investigation, while the Health and Safety Executive has also been informed. 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 added that there had been thousands of people on the site and appealed for anyone with information or relevant video footage to contact Sussex Police online or call 101, quoting Operation Igloo. Organisers initially cancelled the remainder of Friday’s performances before announcing that the entire festival had been brought to a close. It had been scheduled to continue until Sunday (August 30). “Big Church Festival is about bringing people together,” they said. “Tonight, that community is grieving. We are heartbroken.” The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, said she was “sad and shocked” by the incident. “I pray for his family, friends and loved ones as they grieve,” her statement continued. “I pray for those receiving treatment, and the healthcare workers looking after them.” Big Church Festival began in 2009 and has since expanded into an annual event encompassing Christian rock, gospel, rap and contemporary worship music. The 2026 edition had sold all 40,000 of its tickets and was set to include talks, worship sessions, activities and community organisations. Organisers have said that they will contact ticket holders with further information about refunds as soon as possible.