Six people were injured when a sign collapsed at Big Church Festival in West Sussex on Friday afternoon, prompting a lockdown of the site and cancellation of the day's programme. Emergency services, including an air ambulance, were called to the venue at Wiston Park, Steyning, shortly after 3.30pm.
South East Coast Ambulance Service confirmed that six patients were receiving treatment from paramedics, with critical care paramedics and specialist response teams also on scene. A reporter from Premier Christian News told the Express that people were prevented from entering the site following the incident, saying: "We've been told that the site is on lockdown, with people not allowed to get in or out."
Festival programme cancelled
Big Church Festival confirmed that the Friday programme had been cancelled. In a statement, the organisers said: "Big Church Festival 2026 has been paused following a serious incident on site, and no further programme will take place today." They added: "First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been directly impacted by the incident. We understand this will be deeply disappointing for the thousands who have joined us at the festival."
The statement continued: "We are working closely with the emergency services and relevant authorities. Further announcements will be made as more information becomes available. We are grateful for the understanding, patience, and prayers of our community at this time."
Emergency response details
South East Coast Ambulance Service said in a statement: "South East Coast Ambulance Service was called to reports of multiple people in need of medical attention at Wiston Park, Steyning shortly after 15.30hrs today (Friday, 28 August 2026). Ambulance crews, critical care paramedics and specialist response teams are currently on scene with six patients confirmed so far. We have no further information to share at this time but will provide updates as soon as possible."
Sussex Police also attended the scene. A spokesman said: "Emergency services are currently responding to an incident at an event near Steyning. It follows reports of a sign having fallen and injured a number of people at the site in Washington Road." Police were called at around 3.38pm and remained at the scene assisting other emergency services.
Traffic disruption expected
The police spokesman added: "As a result, there is likely to be some traffic disruption in the local area, and we would urge the public to seek alternative routes if possible. We have no further information at this time, but will provide any updates as soon as we are in a position to do so."
The incident occurred on the first day of the festival, which had attracted thousands of attendees. The site remained on lockdown as of Friday evening, with further announcements expected from organisers and authorities as the investigation continues.
