Liam Payne's funeral A-list attendees with just 'hours to go' until star's final farewell

By Michelle Marshall, Senior Showbiz Reporter

Liam Payne’s family pay tribute after his death

The funeral of pop sensation Liam Payne, famed for his time with One Direction, is scheduled to take place today in the Home Counties. The 31 year old singer met with an untimely death following a fall from the balcony of his third-floor hotel room in Argentina last month.

The upcoming funeral service is set to see a gathering of Liam's closest companions and former band members, including Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik. His partner, Kate Cassidy, as well as entertainment mogul Simon Cowell, are amongst those expected to pay their respects.

Liam's distraught father Geoff had previously ventured to the scene of his son's fatal accident, observing the heartfelt dedications left by mourning admirers.

Reflecting on the wave of condolences, a confidante has previously revealed to media: "Geoff is living every parent's worst nightmare. He has been so moved by the outpouring of love and the tributes that have come in from across the world," reports the Mirror.

Liam Payne fans laid out tributes in his hometown of Wolverhampton (Image: Getty)

Liam Payne sadly died at the age of 31 (Image: Getty)

He will be laid to rest today in a private funeral in the Home Counties where just his family and closest friends will attend, followed by a wake.

In a joint statement released following Payne's tragic death, Tomlinson, Malik, Horan, and Styles said they were "completely devastated".

"In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say," they said.

"But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly.

Liam Payne's former One Direction band members are expected to attend his funeral (Image: Getty)

"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."

Tomlinson, Malik, Horan and Styles also penned separate tributes to their late friend.