“It’s so hard to put into words right now. I went out today and thought about so many times we had together. I wanted to let you know what I would always say to the thousands of people who would always ask me.

“What’s Liam like? And I would tell them how kind, funny, sweet, caring, talented, humble, focused. And how much you love music. And how much love you really have for the fans.”

He added: “I had to tell you when you were 14 that it wasn’t your time. And we both promised to see each other again. A lot of people would have given up. You didn’t.

“You came back and within months everyone knew the whole world knew Liam. And you never forgot the fans. I saw you spend so much time with people who wanted to meet you. You really cared of you.

“You came to see me last year. Not for a meeting. Just to sit and talk. And we remembered all the fun times we had together. And how proud you were to be dad.

“After you left, I remembered that you were still the sweet, kind boy I met all those years ago. I met your son, Bear. He has your smile and that twinkle in his eye that you have. And he will be so proud of everything you have accomplished and how you achieved it.

“I always thought of the five of you in the group as brothers. And reading their messages today, I believe you were. And now, Liam, I can see the effect you had on so many people.

“Because you left us too soon. Rest in peace my friend. And I send my love, my thoughts and my prayers to your family. Simon X”

Liam’s former One Direction bandmates Louis Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik and Niall Horan released a joint statement on Thursday. In the statement, signed “Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry”, the four stars said: “We are completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing.

“As time goes on, and everyone is able, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, whom we loved dearly.

“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.”

The musician’s family also released a statement today following his death. They said in a statement released by their spokeswoman: “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we will remember him for his kind, funny and courageous soul.

“We are supporting each other as best we can as a family and asking for privacy and space during this horrible time.”