Harry Styles will "always" miss Liam Payne

Harry - who starred in the chart-topping boyband alongside Liam, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik - wrote on Instagram: "I am truly devastated by Liam's passing.

"His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it.

"Liam lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious.

"He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving.

"The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.

"My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicola and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did.

"- Harry (sic)"

Meanwhile, Zayn previously took to social media to pay his own tribute to Liam, explaining that he "loved and respected" his former bandmate.

The 31-year-old singer said on Instagram: "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 and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly.

"I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever, there is no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated.

"I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and are at peace and you know how loved you are.

"Love you bro. (sic)"