Big Church Festival Sign Collapse Kills One, Injures Six in West Sussex
A large sign fell at the Big Church Festival in Steyning, West Sussex on August 28, killing a 41-year-old man from Eastbourne and injuring at least six others. Festival organizers canceled the remainder of the event. Sussex Police launched an investigation under Operation Igloo.
A man died and six others were taken to hospital after a large sign collapsed at the Big Church Festival in Steyning, West Sussex on August 28, 2026.
The victim, a 41-year-old man from Eastbourne, died at the scene. Emergency services were called at approximately 3:38 pm. Critical care paramedics and specialist response teams responded to the Wiston Estate site.
The area had been experiencing heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 30 mph at the time of the collapse. Festival organizers paused the event immediately and later announced the cancellation of all remaining programming.
Campers were directed to return to their accommodations as the site was cleared. Attendees in entertainment areas were asked to move away from stages and structures.
Sussex Police, working with the Health and Safety Executive and partner agencies, opened a formal investigation designated Operation Igloo. Authorities asked the public to submit any video footage or information that could help determine how the sign fell.
Festival organizers issued a statement saying they were devastated by the tragedy and focused on supporting those affected and their families.
The Big Church Festival is one of the United Kingdom's largest Christian music and worship events, drawing tens of thousands of attendees each year.
