Zayn Malik quits One Direction live: Reaction and updates as singer leaves world's biggest boyband

The 22-year-old's decision follows news he left the 1D world tour last week after being signed off with stress

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Zayn Malik becomes first One Direction member to quit band. These are the latest updates:

• One Direction say they will continue as a foursome
• Fans take to Twitter in disappointment
• Malik’s announcement comes days after he left the 1D tour due to stress
• Malik says he wants to "be a normal 22-year-old who can have private time"

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The 22-year-old, who flew home from their tour with stress last week, today released a statement confirming his 1D career is over.

In it, he said: "My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band.

"I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart.

"I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight.

"I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world.“

It follows days of speculation over the fate of Britain’s most successful boy band since The Beatles.