'Liam Payne left profound impact on sick children'

Liam was an ambassador for Rays of Sunshine while part of One Direction and as a solo artist

Liam Payne helped bring joy to the lives of hundreds of terminally ill children, a charity that worked closely with the former One Direction star has said.

The team at Rays of Sunshine said they were "shocked and saddened" after learning of his death in Buenos Aires.

The charity, which aims to brighten the lives of seriously ill children, said he was a "dear friend" during his time as an ambassador.

Chief executive Dan Assor told the BBC that the singer, who was from Wolverhampton, left a "profound and lasting impact" on the children he helped create memories with.

The charity helps terminally and seriously ill children by granting wishes and the 31-year-old had "helped grant hundreds".

Speaking to BBC Radio WM, Mr Assor said: "Liam was a dedicated ambassador for us for almost a decade.

"He helped grant hundreds of wishes and it was clear to everyone how much these moments meant to him."

The charity released a statement last week to say Payne's legacy would "forever live on", thanking the singer for "all the sunshine he shared" with them.

The pop star, who found fame on The X Factor in 2010, died after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Argentina.

Mr Assor added: "The memories Liam helped create will always be cherished.

"His generosity and the joy he brought to these children definitely left a profound and lasting impact on their lives."