Liam Payne's high school pays tribute to 'well-liked' star in emotional statement

The 31-year-old grew up in Wolverhampton before joining the boy band One Direction

A Wolverhampton high school has paid tribute to their former student, Liam Payne, after his tragic death aged 31. The former One Direction band member fell to his death from the third floor of a hotel in Argentina.

St Peter's Collegiate Academy has said that Liam was 'well-liked' during his school years and they described hum as being 'recognised for his talents'. In a statement posted on Thursday, October 17, a spokesperson said: "In Our Thoughts and Prayers.

"We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of our former student, Liam Payne. During his time at St Peter's Collegiate Academy, Liam was not only well-liked by his peers and teachers but also recognised for his talents. He made a positive impact on our school community, and his contributions will be remembered.

Get breaking news on BirminghamLive WhatsApp

"Our thoughts are with Liam's family and friends during this difficult time. We extend our sincere condolences to all those affected by his passing."

The college where Liam studied music also paid tribute to the singer. A spokesperson for City of Wolverhampton College said on social media: "We were sorry to hear the news about former student Liam Payne and wish to extend our sympathies to his family and friends at this very sad time."

Birmingham: A Child Poverty Emergency

Child poverty is soaring in Birmingham and without urgent change, will only get worse. Having worked with charities and community groups, BirminghamLive is campaigning for the following changes to start to turn the tide:

1. End the two-child benefit cap
2. Provide free school meals to every child in poverty
3. Create a city “aid bank” for baby and child essentials
4. Protect children’s and youth services
5. Create permanent, multi year Household Support Fund and give more Discretionary Housing grants
6. Set up child health and wellbeing hubs in our most deprived neighbourhoods
7. Appoint a Birmingham child poverty tsar
8. Provide free public travel for young people

You can see why in more detail here.

Read our full report Birmingham: A Child Poverty Emergency here.

What you can do to help.