Six people injured after sign falls at Christian festival

A sign collapsed at the Big Church Festival near Steyning in West Sussex on Friday, killing a 41‑year‑old man and injuring at least six other people. Sussex Police were called to the event at Wiston Park around 15:38 BST and the incident was declared an emergency. The man, from Eastbourne, died on the scene, and the injured were taken to hospital for treatment.

The festival, which began on Friday and was scheduled to run until Sunday, was forced to close immediately after the collapse. Organisers announced that all day‑visitors were to leave the site and that campers could depart if they wished. The site was cleared and the festival was suspended for the remainder of the weekend.

Det Ch Supt Richard McDonagh of Sussex Police said the fallen sign was a large wooden structure that had collapsed near the entrance to a tented area. “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,” he said. “You can report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Igloo.” Police are investigating the cause of the collapse and have called the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and local authorities to assess the site.

The incident was witnessed by festival-goers. Theo Saville, who was at the festival, told the BBC that the sign had fallen in the direction of the wind and that an air ambulance arrived shortly after emergency services were called. “Soon after we were told to return to tents, and an air ambulance landed,” he said.

Andrew Griffith, MP for Arundel and South Downs, expressed concern over the casualties. “My thoughts are with all of those impacted at this time and those responding to the incident,” he said. The Diocese of Chichester also sent its prayers to those affected. “We pray for all involved in this accident and those responding,” the diocese said.

The festival’s organisers have stated that their priority is the wellbeing of those involved and are helping people leave the site safely. They have also urged the public to avoid the area, as traffic disruption is expected. Sussex Police have warned that the area around Wiston Park will remain closed until the site is cleared and safe for public use.

The Big Church Festival, which describes itself as the UK's biggest Christian festival, was founded in 2009. The 2024 edition was sold out and attracted thousands of attendees. The festival’s sudden closure has drawn attention to the safety measures required at large outdoor events, particularly those involving large signs and structures.

The incident has prompted a review of safety protocols for the festival and other similar events. Sussex Police, the HSE, and local authorities will investigate the circumstances that led to the sign’s collapse. The police have set up a dedicated operation, Operation Igloo, to manage the incident and gather evidence. The investigation will include a review of the sign’s construction, installation, and the wind conditions present at the time of the collapse.

The festival’s organisers have released statements thanking emergency services for their swift response. They have also expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased and those injured. The organisers have said they will provide updates as more information becomes available.

The incident has caused significant disruption in the local area. Traffic officials have advised motorists to take alternate routes. Local businesses and residents have expressed concern over the potential impact on the community.

The investigation is ongoing. Sussex Police have urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has video footage to contact them. The police have also requested that the public refrain from spreading unverified information. The incident is being treated as a serious matter, and the authorities will continue to work to determine the cause and prevent similar incidents in the future.