While his bandmates are variously looking after babies and launching solo careers during the group’s hiatus, One Direction’s Niall Horan has been enjoying life outside the band in a rather more low-key way. He’s just scored his first non-1D-related magazine cover – for Today’s Golfer, of all things!

The 22 year old performer is the cover star of the latest issue of the golfing magazine, and in a feature interview reveals that he used to play the sport regularly while on tour with One Direction in order to escape the stresses of being in the world’s most popular boyband.

“When I was on the road with One Direction it allowed me to escape the hotel for a few hours and relax,” he said. “Harry [Styles] and I used to play a fair bit and travelling so much has allowed me to play some amazing courses all over the world. It's a great way to escape from everything for a few hours.”

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Since 1D decided to cool off for a bit at the end of their last tour in November 2015, Horan has been using his celebrity status to get involved with good causes and generally enjoy VIP access to high-profile sporting events. However, golf is his number one passion.

“I love it. I'm obsessed with it, to be honest,” said the singer. “I watch an awful lot of golf on the TV. I love all the stats and when they break down swings. I can tell you who's top in greens in regulation, driving distance and stuff like that.”

The star, who is rumoured to be slowly working on some new music, added: “I'm a bit of an anorak, but I find it all very interesting.”

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