One Direction have been forced to cancel their concert in Belfast tonight (October 20) as Liam Payne has taken ill.

Releasing a statement just minutes before they were due to take to the stage, the band explain that while Liam's condition is not serious, it is bad enough for them to let fans down for the first time in five years.

"The show tonight has been cancelled as Liam has taken ill, and whilst not serious, he is unable to perform tonight,"the arena wrote in a statement. "Please hold on to your tickets. A further statement will be made in the morning."

Adding: "The band apologise to the fans and wish Liam better."

Harry and Louis have both taken toTwitter to thanks fans for their understanding, writing:

While the Directioners have already got #GetWellSoonLiam trending, as fans hope and pray that he makes a quick recovery for their scheduled shows this week:

- By Lucy Bacon