Emergency services have responded to a serious incident at Big Church Festival in West Sussex, with multiple people reported injured. The site is said to be on lockdown, with people not allowed to get in or out, as ambulance crews and critical care paramedics attend the scene.
A UK festival was put on “lockdown” as “multiple people” were injured after a sign reportedly fell over. Emergency services were called to Big Church Festival in West Sussex just after 3.30pm today (Friday, August 28).
South East Coast Ambulance Service said six people were being treated by paramedics as the air ambulance was also spotted above the site. A news reporter from Premier Christian News told the outlet people were not allowed to get in the site after the incident, reports the Express.
They said: “We’ve been told that the site is on lockdown, with people not allowed to get in or out.”
A Big Church Festival spokesman said: “Big Church Festival 2026 has been paused following a serious incident on site, and no further programme will take place today. First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been directly impacted by the incident.
“We understand this will be deeply disappointing for the thousands who have joined us at the festival. We are working closely with the emergency services and relevant authorities. Further announcements will be made as more information becomes available.
“We are grateful for the understanding, patience, and prayers of our community at this time.”
South East Coast Ambulance Service confirmed it attended the Wiston Park site. A spokesman said: “South East Coast Ambulance Service was called to reports of multiple people in need of medical attention at Wiston Park, Steyning shortly after 15.30hrs today (Friday, 28 August 2026).
“Ambulance crews, critical care paramedics and specialist response teams are currently on scene with six patients confirmed so far. We have no further information to share at this time but will provide updates as soon as possible.”
A Sussex Police spokesman said: “Emergency services are currently responding to an incident at an event near Steyning. It follows reports of a sign having fallen and injured a number of people at the site in Washington Road.
“Police were called at around 3.38pm and remain at the scene, assisting other emergency services, at this time.As a result, there is likely to be some traffic disruption in the local area, and we would urge the public to seek alternative routes if possible.
“We have no further information at this time, but will provide any updates as soon as we are in a position to do so.”
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