Louis Tomlinson pays tribute to former One Direction bandmate Liam Payne following death aged 31

Louis Tomlinson has shared a tribute to Liam Payne following his tragic death.

The former One Direction singer sadly died after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires yesterday (16 October).

It was reported late yesterday evening that the pop star had died in sudden circumstances during a trip to the Argentinian capital.

And now, posting to Instagram, former bandmate Tomlinson has shared a heartfelt message with his followers.

He wrote: "I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother. Liam was somebody I looked up to everyday, such a positive, funny, and kind soul.

"I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, I was instantly amazed by his voice but more importantly as time went on I got a chance to see the kind brother I’d longed all my life for.

"Liam was an incredible song writer with a great sense of melody, we often spoke of getting back in the studio together to try and recreate the writing chemistry we had built up in the band.

"And for the record, Liam was in my opinion the most vital part of One Direction. His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on. Thank you for shaping us Liam.

"A message to you Liam if you’re listening,

"I feel beyond lucky to have had you in my life but I’m really struggling with the idea of saying goodbye. I’m so grateful that we got even closer since the band, speaking on the phone for hours, reminiscing about all the thousands of amazing memories we had together is a luxury I thought I’d have with you for life. I would have loved to share the stage with you again but it wasn’t to be.

"I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the Uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.

"I wish I got chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.

"Payno, my boy, one of my best friends, my brother, I love you mate. Sleep well X."

His message comes after a statement was shared by the whole of One Direction, including Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik.

Signed by all four members of the band, it read: “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing.

“In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who 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.

“We will miss him terribly.

“We love you Liam."