One Direction star Niall Horan has thanked his fans for creating his band's success.

The Irishman was an unknown until he appeared on the UK X Factor in 2010, with worldwide popularity then ensuing.

However, he took to Twitter to state that the five lads are merely "normal guys", with their success all down to their loyal fans.

Horan initially tweeted: "Layin in bed thinkin! just wanna say thank you! Again! Enjoying some needed time off. But we'll be back soon!"

He later said to a fan: "Stop thankin us! we are really normal guys and u lot have made this happen!"

One Direction meanwhile look set to start writing the follow-up to their 2013 effort 'Midnight Memories' soon, with Horan recently confirming the news on Twitter.