“I am absolutely devastated by the passing of my amazing friend Liam,” Niall wrote in a lengthy Instagram statement. “It just doesn’t feel real. Liam had an energy for life and a passion for work that was contagious. He was the brightest in any room and always made everyone feel happy and safe.”
The ‘Slow Hands’ singer went on to reminisce about his time singing alongside Liam in One Direction.
“All the laughs we’ve had over the years, sometimes about the simplest things, continue to get to me through the grief,” Niall added. “We got to live out our wildest dreams together and I will cherish every moment we had forever. The bond and friendship we had doesn’t often happen in a lifetime.”
Niall, who had Liam and his girlfriend Kate Cassidy as guests at his last concert in Buenos Aires, also told how it was to see his friend for the last time.
“I feel so lucky to have met him recently,” Niall wrote. “Sadly I didn’t know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that night, I would be saying goodbye forever. It’s heartbreaking. My love and condolences go out to Geoff, Karen, Ruth, Nicola and of course his son Bear. Thanks for everything, Payno. Love you brother.”
