Liam Payne spent final birthday ‘doing what he loved’ with family – as grieving parents pay tribute
LIAM Payne spent his final birthday with his family “doing what he loved” before his untimely death.
The pop star turned 31 on August 29 – weeks before he plunged 130 feet from a hotel balcony.
His grieving parents yesterday paid tribute to the One Direction singer who they described as a “kind, funny and brave soul”.
They last saw him in September before he left for Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he reunited with his One Direction bandmate Niall Horan.
An insider told The Sun: “Liam was with his mum in Manchester where they celebrated his birthday with family.
“They were still incredibly close and enjoyed spending time together bowling.
“Liam’s family stayed with him for a few days at the Stock Exchange Hotel.
“It’s tragic to think that ended up being the last time they would celebrate his special day with him.”
Liam’s parents, Geoff and Karen Payne, were seen leaving home in the middle of the night on the day he died.
They left “in a hurry” at around midnight as news of Liam’s death reached the family home in Wolverhampton.
In a statement, Liam’s family said this afternoon: “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul.
“We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space during this awful time.”
Liam is survived by his mum and dad, sisters Ruth and Nicola as well as his seven-year-old son Bear who he co-parented with ex-girlfriend Cheryl Tweedy.
Cheryl is yet to speak publicly about her former partner’s death.
Liam’s autopsy revealed the star suffered severe injuries that led to “internal and external haemorrhaging”.
Emergency services confirmed he died instantly from multiple injuries including a fractured skull.
The singer was said to be “behaving erratically” shortly before his death with witnesses claiming he had to be carried back to his room.
His devastated former One Direction bandmates last night paid tribute in a joint statement.
“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. – Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry.”