Simon Cowell has been left "devastated, heartbroken and empty" by Liam Payne's passing

Liam was unsuccessful when he first auditioned for Simon's 'X Factor' show in 2008 - but when he returned to the show in 2010 was put in the One Direction line-up alongside Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson.

Simon's long statement on Liam's death was posted in essay form on his Instagram as a series of slides.

It said in full: "You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens.

"Liam I am devastated. Heartbroken. And I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you. Every tear I have shed is a memory of you.

"This is so difficult to put into words right now. I went outside today, and I 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 is Liam like?'

"And I would tell them you were kind, funny, sweet, thoughtful, talented, humble, focused. And how much love you genuinely had for the fans.

"I had to tell you when you were 14 that this wasn't your time. And we both made a promise that we would meet again.

"A lot of people would have given up.

"You didn't. You came back and within months the whole world know Liam. "And you never forgot the fans. I watched you spending so much time with people who had wanted to meet you. You really cared.

"You came to see me last year. Not for a meeting. Just to sit and talk. And we reminisced about all of the fun times we had together. And how proud you were to be a Dad.

"After you left, I was reminded that you were still the sweet, kind boy I had met all of those years ago."

Referring to the seven-year-old boy Liam has with singer Cheryl, the music boss went on: "I have 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 achieved. And how you achieved it."

Simon added about his fondness for One Direction: "I always thought the 5 of you in the band as brothers. And regarding 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."

He concluded his statement: "Rest in peace my friend. And I am sending my love, thoughts and prayers to your family. Simon X."