Zayn Malik first public solo appearance at Annual Asian Awards sparks 'tussle' between waiting fans over new haircut

Malik appeared with a buzzcut and was accompanied by his mother as to accept the Outstanding Contribution to Music award

Zayn Malik and mother Trisha attending the 2015 British Asian Awards at The Grosvenor House Hotel, London (PA)

Zayn Malik's first official public appearance since his shock decision to quit One Direction reportedly sparked a tussle between waiting fans arguing over his new haircut.

Malik attended the fifth Annual Asian Awards with his mother, where he was presented with the award for Outstanding Contribution to Music.

The 22-year-old spent time signing autographs before heading inside to the ceremony. However, after he entered the hotel, a "tussle" broke out among the crowd of fans as they argued about his new hairstyle, according to the Press Association.

The singer was signed off tour with stress last month before announcing he was quitting the band in order to spend some time as a "normal 22-year-old".

Accepting his award, Malik paid tribute to his former One Direction bandmates who he said were usually the ones making the speeches, describing himself as "not really a guy of many words".

Former One Direction band member Zayn Malik was sporting a severe new hair cut (PA)

He continued: "I'd also like to take this moment to thank four of the best guys that I ever met whilst being in the band and doing all the amazing things that I did.

"Some of the things that we did will stay with me for the rest of my life."

Malik’s departure from the band caused heartache for millions of One Directioners across the world, while 1D admitted they were “gutted” about losing him after five years performing together but vowed to “carry on stronger than ever”.

Malik is currently working on new material with producer Naughty Boy, the mastermind behind Sam Smith’s Grammy-winning debut album.

It hasn’t been a completely smooth exit however, with Louis Tomlinson reacting furiously at Naughty Boy for "deliberately provoking" One Direction fans after a song was leaked online.