Permanent Liam Payne statute could be erected in his hometown

A permanent tribute to the late singer Liam Payne may be erected in the star’s hometown Wolverhampton.

The One Direction singer, 31, was laid to rest on November 20, after he died on October 16 after falling from a balcony in Argentina.

The funeral saw his family and close friends attend, including former bandmates Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan, as well as his girlfriend Kate Cassidy and Cheryl, the mother of his son Bear.

In the wake of his funeral, a petition for the monument to be erected in his hometown in Wolverhampton in the West Midlands has emerged.

The project began with fans but has now gained support from the area.

The BBC reported that the leader of the local authority, Stephen Simkins said it was ‘right that we recognise every son and daughter from Wolverhampton that’s been an absolute asset to us.’

He added that while there was an ‘open door’ to the idea, he said it would only be done with the approval of Liam Payne’s family.

Simon Bennett, 35, the leader of the council’s Conservative opposition, who went to school at St Peter’s Collegiate Academy with the singer, has previously spoken about the city paying tribute to the singer in some way.

‘It comes as a sad loss for Wolverhampton. There will be many people touched by this – family and friends foremost are the ones that we sympathise with.

‘Fans will be just as upset about this as anybody else. His legacy will continue but it’s going to be a sad few days for people in Wolverhampton, and again, somebody dying so young is never nice at all.

‘A number of years ago one of my council colleagues brought forward an idea to give Liam Payne Freedom of the City – I think that’s something we really need to look into now.

‘Now’s the time particularly with the sad passing of Liam that we do look at something to remember him by.’

In the petition, fans articulated: ‘We propose that the city, partnered with local artists, can create a memorial that reflects the spirit and essence of Liam Payne – his roots, his musical journey, and his incredible contribution to the international music community. This act of remembrance can provide comfort and solace to those who have been touched by his life and passing.

‘Let us honour Liam Payne’s legacy in a lasting way. A way that allows people from all walks of life to find a space to remember him and the joy his music brought into their lives. There is no better tribute to a man who dedicated his life to reaching people through his art.’

Following his death, flowers, cards and messages were laid at the cenotaph and the Lady Wulfrun statue outside St. Peter’s Collegiate Church in Wolverhampton.

This was just one of the many memorials that took place across the world in locations including London, Paris, Madrid, Stockholm, Munich, and in Argentina where the singer died.

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