Man dies and six injured after sign falls at West Sussex festival
Big Church Festival cancelled for the rest of the weekend
Last updated 29th Aug 2026
A man from Eastbourne, East Sussex has died following an incident at a Christian festival in West Sussex.
On Friday afternoon, during the Big Church Festival near Steyning, a large sign fell, resulting in the death of the 41-year-old man.
Five other people were also injured. Four of them were taken to hospital for treatment.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police confirmed: “His next of kin have been told and are being supported by specialist officers.”
The festival response
In response to the incident, organisers cancelled Friday’s show and later announced the cancellation of the remaining days of the festival, which was scheduled to continue until Sunday.
A Big Church Festival spokesperson said in a social media statement: “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.”
“Our thoughts are with those who have been affected, their families and friends, and everyone who witnessed what happened. Following today’s incident, we have made the decision to bring Big Church Festival 2026 to a close.”
Police investigation
Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh expressed condolences: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go out to the man’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
Sussex Police have reported the incident to the Health and Safety Executive and local authority and requested anyone with information or relevant video footage to contact them online or at 101, quoting Operation Igloo.