One dead, six injured after sign falls at UK Christian festival

A 41-year-old man has died, and at least six other people have been injured after a large sign fell at the Big Church Festival in West Sussex on Friday, August 28.

Police said they were called to Wiston Park, near Steyning, in the afternoon following reports that a “large sign” had fallen at the Christian festival. The man, from Eastbourne, was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed, as per Sky News report.

Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh said at least six other people had been taken to hospital.

Festival-goers were initially told that Friday’s programme had been cancelled. Organisers later confirmed that the entire festival had been brought “to a close”, two days before it was due to finish on Sunday.

A festival spokesperson said on social media: “We are devastated by the serious incident that took place at Big Church Festival 2026 today, in which a sign fell, injuring at least seven people, one of whom tragically lost 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.”

Police remained at the scene on Friday evening. The incident has been reported to the Health and Safety Executive and the local authority.

Sussex Police have appealed for anyone with relevant video footage to contact them by calling 101 and quoting Operation Igloo, or through the force’s website.

Founded in 2009, Big Church Festival describes itself as the UK’s biggest Christian festival.

Winds of up to 27mph were recorded in Shoreham, about five miles from the festival site, on Friday, according to the Met Office.

By Tamilla Hasanova