Tragedy Strikes West Sussex Festival: Man Dies, 6 Injured

A Christian festival in West Sussex was abruptly cancelled after a devastating incident on Friday afternoon, which saw a large sign fall, leading to the death of a 41-year-old man and injuring at least six other people. The Big Church festival, held on the Wiston Estate near Steyning, was scheduled to run until Sunday.

Emergency services were called to the scene following reports of the fallen sign. The man, from Eastbourne, East Sussex, was tragically pronounced dead at the site. His next of kin have been informed and are receiving support from specialist officers.

The six other individuals injured were taken to hospital for treatment, though details of their conditions were not immediately available.

DCS Richard McDonagh of Sussex police expressed profound sorrow, stating,

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

Police have urged anyone with information or relevant video footage to come forward and assist with their investigation.

Organisers of the Big Church festival confirmed the cancellation shortly after the incident, initially telling day visitors to leave the site. Later, they released an online statement expressing their devastation:

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

The statement continued, "First and foremost, all of our thoughts are with those who have been affected, their families and friends, and everyone who witnessed what happened." The decision was made to cancel the remainder of the festival, prioritizing the welfare of attendees and to allow authorities to investigate. Officers remained at the scene on Friday night, and the public was advised to avoid the area.

The Health and Safety Executive has been notified of the incident and is expected to conduct an investigation.

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