FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS

Mourned by millions of fans around the world, former One Direction star Liam Payne was open about the pressures of living life in the spotlight before his tragic death last week

- LEO ROBERTS

Liam Payne’s former One Direction bandmates spoke of their heartbreak following the loss of their “brother” last week. In a joint statement, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Zayn Malik said they were “completely devastated” by the news of Liam’s shock death, adding, “The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam.”

The much-loved singer passed away last Wednesday, aged just 31, after falling from a third floor balcony at Hotel CasaSur in Argentine capital Buenos Aires. He was pronounced dead at 5.11pm (9.11pm UK time).

In an emotional statement, his family said, “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time.”

Individually, Liam’s former bandmates spoke of their grief, with Louis saying, “I wish I got a chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.”

Harry paid tribute to his “warm, supportive” friend and said, “The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.”

Zayn, who left One Direction in 2015, a year before the rest of the band split, thanked Liam for supporting him “through the most difficult times” in his life.

“When I was missing home as a 17-year-old kid, you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved,” he said. “I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly.”