Emergency services are responding to reports that a sign has collapsed and injured several individuals at an event held on Washington Road in Steyning.

The incident occurred at the Big Church Festival, which is being hosted at the Wiston Estate.

Attendees received notification that the event was being halted immediately due to a serious incident at the venue.

Authorities have urged members of the public to avoid attempting to reach any stages or content areas.

All individuals camping at the festival have been instructed to return to their on-site accommodation.

Road travel in the vicinity has been affected by the emergency response.

The AA has reported significant delays on the Steyning Bypass as a result of the situation.

Organisers of the Big Church Festival published a statement on social media confirming that today’s scheduled performances had been cancelled following a serious incident.

Day ticket holders were instructed to vacate the site immediately.

Those staying in camping facilities were asked to return to their pitches and await further information, though they were permitted to leave if they chose to do so.

Six individuals sustained injuries requiring medical attention.

A representative for South East Coast Ambulance Service confirmed that multiple patients were involved.

Paramedic crews, critical care specialists and dedicated response units have been deployed to the location.

The service stated that additional details would be released as they became available.