Louis Tomlinson and Harry Styles: 'Thanks for everything'

Louis Tomlinson and Harry Styles have thanked their fans for their ongoing support over the last five years.

On Sunday evening (13Dec15) One Direction bowed out of the limelight with a final performance of new songs History and Infinity before they take a well-earned break from music. The boys - Harry, Louis, Liam Payne and Niall Horan - said their goodbyes on The X Factor UK, which was a poignant move seeing as it was on the British talent show that they were discovered. On Monday (14Dec15) Louis took to Twitter to tell fans how much they mean to the foursome.

"Well that was an emotional night !!" he shared to his 20.9 million followers. "Never can we thank you enough for how special you have made the last five years for us!

"I hope you realise what we have all done together really is incredible. You guys have made us what we are today! We'll be back soon enough!"

Harry shared his sentiments, taking to his own account not long after the show. The long-haired singer seemed lost for words, but managed to express his gratitude to fans.

"To you, you have changed our lives and no words will ever be good enough to thank you for what we have done together," he posted.

"You are the greatest team mates we have ever known. Thank you."

The boys came together on The X Factor in 2010, and were also joined by Zayn Malik in the original line-up.

As well as being praised by music boss Simon Cowell after their X Factor set, the band were also treated to a series of video messages from the likes of Robbie Williams, Danny DeVito, 5 Seconds Of Summer, James Corden and David Beckham, who all wished the four pop stars well as they embark on a hiatus.