Organisers of a Christian festival say they are "devastated" after a man was killed by a falling sign.
Big Church Festival, held near Steyning, has been brought to an early close following the incident yesterday (August 28), which also left at least six other people injured.
Festival organisers said they were "heartbroken" after the sign fell at the event on Friday afternoon.
In a statement issued late on Friday night, organisers said: "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."
They confirmed the decision had been taken to end this year's festival immediately.
The festival had been scheduled to continue over the weekend.
"Our immediate priority is the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved and helping those currently at the festival to leave the site safely," the statement said.
Sussex Police said officers were called to the festival site on Washington Road at about 3.38pm on Friday after reports that a large sign had fallen and injured a number of people.
A 41-year-old man from Eastbourne was pronounced dead at the scene.
His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.
At least six other people were injured and taken to hospital for treatment.
Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh said: "This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go out to the man's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
"At least six other people were also injured during this incident and have been taken to hospital for treatment.
"I recognise the immense distress this will have caused people at the festival, and we are working with a number of partners as we seek to establish exactly what happened."
Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with relevant video footage to come forward, quoting Operation Igloo.
The A283 was temporarily closed between Washington Roundabout and the B2135 Horsham Road while emergency services responded.
Festival organisers said they were working closely with the emergency services, police and the Health and Safety Executive as investigations continue.
"We are incredibly grateful to everyone who responded, and to our teams and community for the care they have shown one another," they said.
"Big Church Festival is about bringing people together.
"Tonight, that community is grieving.
"Right now, our focus is on those directly affected by what happened today.
"We are heartbroken."
The Health and Safety Executive and the local authority have been informed of the incident.
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