THE leading member of Wirral dance group MerseyGirls has had her final life-changing surgery 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 shine a spotlight on spinal condition – scoliosis.

They told the competition that if they won, they would use the prize fund for life-changing spinal surgery for Julia who has scoliosis.

Without the operation, not available in the UK, Julia would be unable to continue her passion of dancing.

Head judge Simon Cowell was so touched by Julia’s determination that he offered to pay for her £78,000 surgery even though the girls missed out on being crowned champions.

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."

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

The rest of the MerseyGirls group revealed: “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.”

Then on Friday, August 4 Julia revealed on social media that her second surgery was a success and she is now recovering.

Julia said: “Second surgery was a success!

“Now on the road to recovery. Thank you @SimonCowell @CowellOnline #strong #recovery #fighter.”