One dead and six injured after 'large sign' falls at Christian festival in West Sussex

One person has died and at least six people have been injured after a large sign fell at a Christian festival in West Sussex.

Sussex Police were called to the incident at the Big Church Festival at Wiston Park near Steyning on Friday, where a 41-year-old man from Eastbourne was pronounced dead.

His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers, police added.

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.

"At least six other people were also injured during this incident and have been taken to hospital for treatment."

Organisers said the festival had been brought "to a close" for this year after the tragedy.

Attendees had previously been told that Friday's show had been cancelled in a post on Instagram shortly after 5.30pm.

In a public statement, Big Church Festival said: "Right now, our focus is on those directly affected by what happened today. We are heartbroken."

Officers remained at the scene on Friday night as police continued to urge people to avoid the area.

Sussex Police said the incident has been reported to the Health and Safety Executive and local authority.

In an earlier statement, the festival's organisers said that their "thoughts and prayers are with those who have been directly impacted by the incident".

Big Church Festival was founded in 2009 and, according to its website, is the UK's biggest Christian festival.

According to the Met Office's UK weather map, wind speeds of up to 27mph were recorded in Shoreham, West Sussex, on Friday afternoon.

(c) Sky News 2026: One dead and six injured after 'large sign' falls at Christian festival in West Sussex