Tributes have been paid to the "lovely" and "down-to-earth" One Direction star Liam Payne as residents reflect on the time he performed in Kidderminster. 

The Wolverhampton-born pop star tragically died aged just 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, yesterday (Wednesday, October 16). 

Liam, who rose to worldwide fame on The X Factor as one of the five members of One Direction, performed twice at The Gainsborough House Hotel back in 2010 with Upfront Entertainments. 

Brian Davies, who ran the entertainment company, described meeting the singer on both occasions as a "privilege" and said he was a "lovely young guy", 

Paying tribute to the 31-year-old, Mr Davies said: "In the early days of 2010, Liam Payne did two showcases at The Gainsborough House Hotel for my company Upfront Entertainments.

"I met him on both occasions and he was always polite and down-to-earth. Rest in peace Liam." 

Signed photo given to a fan at The Gainsborough House Hotel Signed photo given to a fan at The Gainsborough House Hotel (Image: Brian Davies) Other residents described the news as "tragic beyond belief" and offered their condolences to his friends, family and son Bear who he shares with former X-Factor judge and Girls Aloud singer Cheryl. 

Liam's former school St Peter's Collegiate Academy Wolverhampton has also paid tribute to the singer and said it was "deeply saddened" by the news of his death. 

The school said: "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," it said.

"He made a positive impact on our school community, and his contributions will be remembered.

"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."