Day visitors at a Christian festival in West Sussex have been ordered to leave the site following a “serious incident” that left at least six people injured.
Ambulance personnel confirmed six casualties amid initial reports that a sign fell at the Big Church Festival, located at Wiston Park near Steyning.
In an Instagram update posted shortly after 5.30pm, event organisers informed attendees that Friday’s entertainment had been cancelled, adding that all day visitors “must leave the site now”.
Sussex Police stated that emergency crews were deployed to the venue off Washington Road after receiving reports that a sign fell and injured several individuals.
“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.”
The festival began on Friday and had been set to run until Sunday.
A statement from Big Church Festival said: “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.”
In a later statement, the organisers added that their “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,” a Big Church Festival spokesperson said.
“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.”
According to its website, Big Church Festival was founded in 2009 and is the UK’s biggest Christian festival.
Lauren Daigle, CeCe Winans, Bethel Music and Elevation Rhythm are among the act scheduled to perform.
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.
More to follow…
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