Man Dies, Six Injured After Large Sign Falls at Christian Festival in West Sussex

Tragedy struck the Big Church festival in West Sussex on Friday afternoon when a large sign collapsed, resulting in the death of a 41-year-old man and injuries to at least six others. The man, from Eastbourne, East Sussex, was pronounced dead at the scene following the incident near Steyning.

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This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go out to the man’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

Sussex police confirmed that the man's next of kin have been notified and are receiving support from specialist officers. At least six other individuals were transported to the hospital for treatment of their injuries. Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh described the event as tragic and extended condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

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We are devastated by the serious incident that took place at Big Church festival 2026 today, in which a sign fell, injuring at least seven people, one of whom tragically lost their life.

In response to the devastating incident, festival organizers announced the cancellation of the remaining program. All day visitors were instructed to leave the site immediately. The festival, which was scheduled to continue until Sunday, has been brought to a close. Organizers expressed their devastation, stating that their thoughts are with those affected, their families, and witnesses.

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First and foremost, all of our thoughts are with those who have been affected, their families and friends, and everyone who witnessed what happened.

Police remained at the scene throughout Friday night, advising the public to avoid the area. The Health and Safety Executive and the local authority have been notified, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the sign's collapse. Authorities are appealing to the thousands of attendees for any information or video footage that could assist in their investigation.

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I recognise the immense distress this will have caused people at the festival, and we are working with a number of partners as we seek to establish exactly what happened.