Liam Payne’s family and friends raise staggering amount at his funeral for groundbreaking children’s cancer unit
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.
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.
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“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, 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.