Zayn: It’s the right time to leave 1D

Zayn Malik has left One Direction, saying he wants the chance to be “a normal 22-year-old”.

The group said they would continue as a four-piece for their world tour and record another album — their fifth — later this year.

Malik said: “My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I’d like to apologise to the fans if I’ve let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart.