One Direction Star: 'We Are Not Splitting Up'

One Direction have confirmed they are taking a break next year - but are not splitting up.

Group member Niall Horan, 21, posted a message to his 23 million followers on Twitter in which he said: "Ok so Lots of rumours going round. We are not splitting up, but we will be taking a well earned break at some point next year.

"Don't worry though, we still have lots to achieve! Can't wait for you to hear all the new music we have for you and to perform some new songs as the tour continues! Love you all xx!"

It comes as group spokesman Simon Jones declined to comment on reports in The Sun that the group would take an extended hiatus in March 2016, saying he would not comment on "speculation".

The exclusive story by the paper's head of showbiz, Dan Wootton, saw him deluged with abuse on Twitter by devastated fans of the group.

Wooton's story - printed under the headline 1D: It's The End received angry posts ranging from denial to foul-mouthed insults and threats.

One wrote: "Seriously give up already. a break isn't a break up, stop spinning headlines for click bait and ratings".

Someone else tweeted: "Leave one direction alone ... you seriously make up lies just to get money and fame, get a ******* life"

Another said in a post: "Who is Dan Wootton and who put a mouth on it ew kill it,kill it with fire."

The group is currently on the North American leg of a tour that is due to end 31 October in Sheffield.