Louis Tomlinson has thanked One Direction fans for their support.

The singer was a relative unknown until being pieced together in the group on the 2010 series of the X Factor, where they finished third.

The quintet have gone on to achieve global success but Tomlinson said that One Direction wouldn't be where they are without the dedication and support of their fans. The 'One Thing' star told The Star:

"This last two years has been just a complete whirlwind. It's hard to believe it at times. It's really difficult to take in. Even that I'm in the band in the first place is strange enough. I lay in bed and think about everything that's happened. I know it sounds really cheesy but it's difficult to believe - especially at this young age."

Tomlinson continued: "But it's all down to our fans. They are the people who have put us where we are and they are the people who continue to play the records. I want to send a massive thanks to them all. None of their support goes unnoticed. They have been absolutely incredible. We would have got nowhere without the fans who voted for us on the X Factor and who are now going out and buying the records and coming to see us on tour."