A number of One Direction's touring band members have paid tribute to the late Liam Payne

Sandy Beales, who played bass for the band, wrote on Instagram: "Words won't ever fully do you justice but thank you. For everything.

"Always so full of life and always up for a laugh, insanely talented and charismatic on stage, it was a pleasure and an honour to stand up there with you.

"It felt like we all grew up together on the road, even when theatres turned in to stadiums you and the lads would still have time for everyone in the crew and we felt the love on that wild, crazy, life changing ride.

"It's hard to think that there won't be a chance to reminisce on those crazy times. Huge love and strength to Liam's family and the 1D boys at this horrific time. We are all thinking of you!"

Jon Shone, a keyboardist who was also musical director for the 'What Makes You Beautiful' hitmakers thanked Liam for the time they had spent together.

He wrote on Instagram: "It is always difficult to put into words the feelings in your heart when you loose someone that you shared such amazing memories with.

"So I want to say thank you. Thank you for the wonderful memories of being in this band with you, for the nights I got to play your music, to the nights we sat with a beer talking about how crazy the whole thing was.

"My heart goes out to the whole family, the wider 1D family, and everyone who knew Liam.

"I hope your mind is now calm and that you can sing the songs you love in peace and serenity in the paradise of heaven. Love always."

Guitarist Dan Richards wrote on his Instagram Story: "This all feels so surreal. Thanks to everyone reaching out, still trying to wrap my head around it all. My thoughts go out to Liams family at this time.(sic)"

And drummer Josh Devine reflected on the "heartbreaking news" on his own Instagram Story.

He wrote: "I just pray for Liams family, and all that knew and loved him. Some of my fav memories in life were because of this man. No words.(sic)"

Choreographer Paul Roberts shared an image of a black heart to Instagram.

He wrote: "Sweet, kind Liam. Love is all I have... Such a sad sad day for our 1D family."

The 'History' group's former vocal coach, Helene Horlyck vowed Liam would be "forever in [her] heart".

She wrote on Instagram: "Liam was the loveliest young man who just loved to sing. He was only a teenager when I met him and One Direction was formed. His talent and professionalism had a big impact on the band especially in the early days as Liam always strived for the best during all of our sessions.

"Liam was fun and a joy to spend time with, he even re named some of my vocal exercises as he had such a wonderful sense of humour and upbeat energy. I will always remember Liam as a polite young man who was caring and kind.

"Whenever my son Cai would join the world tours Liam would invite him along on his tourbus, sit and play video games with him, make sure he was OK, such a person was Liam, warm and friendly.

"Thank you for all the wonderful years dear Liam, you will forever be in my heart and your voice will live on, not only in my memories but also in the incredible songs. Rest in peace sweet darling."

Lou Teasdale, the band's hair and make-up artist shared a video of the group performing along with the caption: "forever."

She also wrote on her Instagram Story: "i hope you're all ok.(sic)"