In their first year on their charts, One Direction have made a lasting impression by racking up 12 million in records sales. As RTE reports, that figure outweighs the total combined sales by bands such as The Arctic Monkeys, Noel Gallagher and Kasabian over the same period.

Speaking on behalf of One Direction, singer Liam Payne said: "We have an incredible team of people around us who have helped us achieve this. Above all we would like to thank our fans."

The figure of 12 million record sales includes album sales, singles sales and DVD sales. Their debut smash hit single ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ has sold five million units, with three million being in the US, a tough market to crack for any new act.

Similarly, One Direction shattered records in the US when their album ‘Up All Night’ debuted at number one on the Billboard charts, making them the first ever UK act to debut in the top spot. The album went on to reach number one in 16 countries.

The fame continues to spiral for the UK and Irish band that was formed during the 2010 season of the UK ‘X Factor’ under the leadership of media mogul Simon Cowell. One fifth of the band is Mullingar native Niall Horan.

Having sold out a summer tour for 2012, the lads have already scheduled another world tour for 2013 which is on the brink of selling out. They’re rumored to be performing at London’s closing ceremonies for the Summer Olympics this month alongside other British greats The Spice Girls and Adele.