Liam Payne's girlfriend Kate Cassidy says they had planned to get married next year

Liam Payne's girlfriend has said they planned to get married next year in a statement a week after his death.

The former One Direction star died in Buenos Aires, Argentina, after falling from a third-floor balcony at the Casa Sur hotel.

Kate Cassidy, who had been in Argentina with Payne, 31, until two days before his death, wrote on Instagram: "A few weeks ago, we sat outside on a beautiful evening manifesting our lives together.

"I keep your note close, even though you told me not to look at it. It said 'me and Kate to marry within a year/engaged & together forever 444'.

"Liam, I know we'll be together forever, but not in the way we had planned. You'll always be with me. I've gained a guardian angel."

In the post where she shared pictures of herself and the singer, the American social media influencer added: "My heart is shattered in ways I can't put into words.

"I wish you could see the huge impact you've had on the world, even as it feels so dark right now.

"You brought so much happiness and positivity to everyone - millions of fans, your family, friends, and especially me."

She added: "You are so incredibly loved. You are - because I can't say were - my best friend, the love of my life, and everyone you touched felt just as special as I did.

"Your energy was contagious, lighting up every room you walked into.

"None of this feels real, and I can't wrap my head around this new reality of not having you here. I'm struggling to figure out how to live in a world without you by my side.

"Together, we got to be kids again, always finding joy in the smallest things."

"Liam, you had the kindest soul and the most fun-loving spirit. It feels like I've lost the best part of myself. I can't imagine a day without your laughter and love. You brought so much light into my life."

The couple had been in a relationship for two years.

Cassidy returned home from Argentina two days before the death of the former One Direction star last Wednesday.

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Tributes have poured in for the singer, who gained fame with One Direction in 2010.

A toxicology exam on his body has not been completed yet, authorities in Argentina have said - amid reports of cocaine being found in his system.

(c) Sky News 2024: Liam Payne's girlfriend Kate Cassidy says they had planned to get married next year