LEADING member of all-girl Wirral dance group MerseyGirls Julia Carlile has had her first life-changing operation paid for by Simon Cowell.

Made up of best friends Alice, Poppy, Julia, Annie and Rebecca and formerly known as Just Us, the dance group first entered Britain’s Got Talent to highlight spinal scoliosis.

This came with a vow that if they won the competition they would use the prize fund for life-changing spinal surgery for Julia who has scoliosis

Without the operation, only available abroad, Julia would be unable to continue dancing.

After their semi-final performance head judge Simon Cowell told the girls: “Whatever happens, we’ll make sure you’re alright.”

In the finals MerseyGirls confirmed that he would pay for the £78,000 surgery to help Julia get back to dancing as soon as possible.

Before their final performance lead member Julia told the show: "When I'm dancing I just feel like a normal kid, I completely forget about my condition.

"This could be my last performance with the girls before my surgery which is a really scary thought.

"My operation is a risk because it could mean I will never dance again "The support has been incredible.

"Simon offering to pay for my surgery was so overwhelming and dancing on stage with your friends is the best feeling in the world."

Unfortunately on the night the girls missed out being crowned champions but Mr Cowell kept his word.

On July 23, Julia headed back to America to start her surgery with her family by her side.

The rest of the MerseyGirls group account revealed today (Tuesday) that Julia made it out of her first surgery: "Julia has done it. First operation done, we are so proud of her and missing her so much.

"We want to give her a massive hug, our girl is a fighter."

Julia thanked fans on social media: "I did it guys.

"My first surgery is done.

"I'm very sore but i'm doing okay, thank you for all your support."