A florist arranges flowers ahead of the funeral service for One Direction singer Liam Payne (Image: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire)

Church decorated ahead of Liam Payne's funeral as One Direction bandmates set to attend

by · Birmingham Live

A church is being prepared this morning ahead of Liam Payne's funeral which is set to take place today (Wednesday, November 20). The 31-year-old singer died after he fell from a hotel balcony in Argentina last month.

He leaves behind his son, Bear, who he shared with former X Factor judge Cheryl. Liam appeared on the ITV show where he was placed into boyband One Direction along with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson.

All four are expected to attend the funeral today which is for close friends and family. Since the incident, three individuals have been charged in relation to his death. Liam, who was from Wolverhampton, suffered "serious injuries that were incompatible with life" and an investigation into the circumstances of his death is still active.

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Liam's heartbroken father Geoff returned his son's body to the UK to allow for a proper farewell, and today marks the day when family and friends will bid their last respects to the cherished singer, who was also a beloved brother, son, father, and friend. A private funeral service will take place attended by his nearest and dearest, followed by a wake.

 

Ahead of the service, a church in the home counties has seen an exquisite display of flower arrangements positioned by its entrance. From the early hours of this morning, arrangements including white roses and seasonal greenery adorned the archway leading into the church, complementing the trail of candles that lined the path for the mourners expected later in the day.

(L-R) Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik and Harry Styles of One Direction pose with their Brits Global Success Award in the press room at the Brit Awards 2013 (Image: Getty Images)

One Direction expressed their collective heartbreak last month, saying: "We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say."

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

In a saddening turn of events, Liam's funeral will mark the first time that the former One Direction bandmates have come together in nine years.