One person has died and at least seven others have been injured after a sign fell during the Big Church Festival in West Sussex.
The festival organisers said they were “devastated” by the serious incident, which took place at Wiston Park, near Steyning, on Friday.
In a statement, Big Church Festival said at least seven people were injured, with one person “tragically” losing their life.
“First and foremost, all of our thoughts are with those who have been affected, their families and friends, and everyone who witnessed what happened,” organisers said.
Sussex Police said a 41-year-old man, who was from Eastbourne, died at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh said: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go out to the man’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."
He added:“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.
“We know there were thousands of people at the festival and we’re urging anyone with any information, or any relevant video footage, to please come forward. You can report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Igloo.”
Sussex Police said officers were called at around 3.38pm following reports that “a sign had fallen and injured a number of people” at the site in Washington Road.
The force remained at the scene assisting other emergency services.
Earlier in the evening, festival organisers cancelled the remainder of Friday's programme and instructed day visitors to leave the site.
Campers were told to return to their campsites and await further updates, with those who wished to leave also being permitted to do so.
The festival's broadcast on GOD TV was also suspended.
In its latest statement, Big Church Festival said: “Following today’s incident, we have made the decision to bring Big Church Festival 2026 to a close.”
The festival had been due to continue over the weekend. Organisers have asked people to visit the festival website for further updates.
