LIAM PAYNE’s death is one of the most heartbreaking things to have happened in the music industry for some time.

But I can reveal that amid the sadness, the One Direction singer’s kind-hearted friends and family have raised an incredible £31,303 for Great Ormond Street Hospital after attending his funeral in November.

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Liam Payne’s friends and family have raised an incredible £31,303 for Great Ormond Street Hospital after attending his funeral in NovemberCredit: Getty

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Liam’s ex-partner and mother of his son, Cheryl Tweedy at the funeralCredit: Louis Wood

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One Direction star Harry Styles looked sombre at the serviceCredit: Dan Charity

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Niall Horan and his girlfriend Amelia Woolley paid their respectsCredit: Getty
A further £1,808 has been collected through online donations in Liam’s name, mainly from fans.

The money will go towards building a new children’s cancer unit.

A source said: “Everyone is still coming to terms with the tragic loss of Liam, but there is some comfort in knowing the legacy he leaves behind.

“Everyone dug deep at the service and the amount raised is staggering — it will help change lives.

“Aside from his love of music, Liam was passionate about helping others, especially children, due to his love of being a father to little Bear.”

Liz Tait, the director of fund- raising at Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, told Bizarre: “We’re extremely touched and grateful for all the donations in memory of Liam, which will go towards building a brand new children’s cancer centre at Great Ormond Street.

“Our thoughts and sincere ­condolences continue to go out to Liam’s family and friends.”

Liam’s funeral took place at a tiny village church in Amersham, Bucks, in November, with mourners including Simon Cowell, James Corden and his ex-partner and mother of his son, Cheryl Tweedy.

The four other founding members of 1D — Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan — were also there.

Alongside a picture of the star, a message on the back of the order of service read: “Thank you for attending the service and thank you for all the kind messages received.

“Liam would like you to make a donation. In memory of Liam, we’d like you to consider Great Ormond Street Hospital.”

Last week, a tribute to Liam was unveiled at Clevedon Pier in ­Somerset, where One Direction shot the music video for their 2014 single, You & I.

The plaque includes lyrics from the 1D album track Walking In The Wind, which appeared on their final record, Made In The AM.

The lyrics read: “If you’re lost, just look for me. You’ll find me in the region of the summer stars”.

I’m sure there will be many more heartfelt gestures honouring Liam in the years to come.

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Liam’s family and closest friends came together to pay their final respects following the star’s deathCredit: Louis Wood

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Pallbearers carry Liam’s coffin which was adorned with white rosesCredit: Louis Wood

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Zayn Malik reunited with the band for the first timeCredit: PA

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Louis Tomlinson pictured in black at Liam’s send-offCredit: Dan Charity / The Sun

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Music mogul Simon Cowell was also amongst the mournersCredit: Louis Wood