Marvin Humes pays emotional tribute to Liam Payne following the star's tragic death

has paid an emotional tribute to his "brother" Liam Payne who at the age of 31.

The 39 year old X Factor star first met Liam during the 2008 auditions of the X Factor and recalls the moment he took him under his wing when the One Direction star was only 14. Liam tragically fell to his death earlier this week from his third floor hotel balcony, while on holiday in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Speaking on Kiss, Marvin who sounded emotional when recalling his time with the singer said: "Personally, you know, devastating news. I first met Liam back in 2008 auditions for The X Factor, and we just instantly clicked. You know, we kind of took him under our wing and always joked that he was like the fifth member of the band, and we just got on so well."

He continued: "Unfortunately, didn't work out for him that year. And I remember putting arm around him and saying 'You're so talented, mate, you're only 14 years old. It's gonna work out for you. Just come back and try again'. And he did two years later, re-auditioned, and then One Direction were born, and the rest is history, they went on to be one of the biggest bands of all time. And I'm super proud of Liam and what he achieved and what the boys have achieved. "

He then went on to say: "My thoughts and condolences are with Liam's family, his friends, with Cheryl and Bear his son, of course, and his One Direction bandmates you know they've they've lost their brother as well. I sort of take comfort in the fact that Liam, really, you know, achieved his dreams, beyond his wildest dreams and had an incredible career and I'm super proud of him for that."

But the JLS star has not been the only one to share their condolences and memories of the star. Another X Factor contestant who auditioned in the same year as Liam, was Rebecca Ferguson. She took to social media and wrote: ""It's always a hotel room! We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X factor, young, innocent and unaffected by fame. I can't help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead. If he hadn't jumped on that train and jumped in that taxi I believe he would be alive today."

She added: "I've spoken for years about the exploitation and profiteering of young stars and the effects - many of us are still living with the aftermath and the PTSD [post traumatic stress disorder]. Many of us are devastated and reflective today as it has finally taken its first victim. Rest in Peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love to your mum and family x."

Follow Mirror Celebs on , , , , , and