One Direction thank fans

One Direction have thanked their fans for the band's success at last night's Billboard Awards.

While Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik and Liam Payne weren't able to attend the star-studded industry event in Las Vegas, the British group was honoured with three trophies.

The five pop hunks were named Top Duo/Group, Top New Artist and Top Pop Artist and took to Twitter to thank their loyal fan base.

"Thank you for voting for us at the @billboard awards.. Can't believe it. Love you all so much .xx [sic]," Harry tweeted.

"Wow! Wake up and find out that we've won 3 billboard awards! Can't believe it! Thank you so much best fans ever! Love you soo much xxxxxxx [sic]," Niall gushed before adding, "Top group, top new artist, top pop artist! You guys are the best! Thanks very much! Means so much!"

One Direction are currently in Italy as they continue on the European leg of their Take Me Home world tour.

The boys performed at amphitheatre Arena di Verona last night before heading to Milan today. The former X Factor UK stars appeared to be having a blast during their performance yesterday, with Harry larking about in a comedy wig in the colours of the Italian flag on stage.

Meanwhile, Zayn was joined by girlfriend Perrie Edwards in the romantic city. The young couple was pictured strolling around the cobbled streets before heading back to the boys' tour bus.

Last week, the hugely successful band announced that they will be embarking on a world stadium tour in 2014.

Titled Where We Are, the dates that have been announced so far will cover South America and the UK starting on April 25 in Bogotá, Colombia.

"Guyssss still can't believe we will be playing stadiums next year!! Thank you all soooooo much for the constant support and love," Liam tweeted yesterday.