Church festival visitors told to leave after six injured in ‘serious incident’
Sussex Police said emergency services were at the scene following reports a sign had fallen and injured a number of people at the site off Washington Road
Last updated 13 hours ago
Day visitors to a Christian festival in West Sussex have been told to leave the site after at least six people were injured in a “serious incident”.
Ambulance crews said six people had been injured amid reports a sign had fallen at Big Church Festival at Wiston Park near Steyning.
In a post on Instagram shortly after 5.30pm, organisers told attendees that Friday’s show had been cancelled and all day visitors “must leave the site now”.
Sussex Police said emergency services were at the scene following reports a sign had fallen and injured a number of people at the site off Washington Road.
“Police were called at around 3.38pm and remain at the scene, assisting other emergency services, at this time,” a force spokesperson said.
South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) said its crews were called to reports that “multiple people” needed medical attention.
“Ambulance crews, critical care paramedics and specialist response teams are currently on scene with six patients confirmed so far,” a Secamb spokesperson said.
“We have no further information to share at this time but will provide updates as soon as possible.”
Big Church Festival said on Instagram: “We are very sorry to inform you that today’s show has been cancelled due to a serious incident.
“All day visitors must leave the site now. If you are camping with us, please return to your campsite and await further updates.
“Campers may leave the site if they wish to do so.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding. We will share further updates as soon as we can.”
According to its website, Big Church Festival was founded in 2009 and is the UK’s biggest Christian festival.
The Met Office had urged festivalgoers to prepare for windy conditions over the bank holiday weekend.
According to its UK weather map, wind speeds of up to 27mph were recorded in Shoreham, West Sussex, on Friday afternoon.