Teenager to become model after operation to put metal rod in back

Gemma Riley, 15, can finally stand up straight after suffering from scoliosis, which left her with a 65-degree curve in her spine - shaped like an S-bend - and in constant pain.

Surgeons carried out a five-hour operation to twist the top of her spine by 65 degrees and clamp it in place with a titanium rod and pins, leaving her with a 13-inch scar.

Yet within two months she was spotted by modelling scouts and she is aiming to celebrate by winning the Teen Princess UK competition having got down to the last 20 models.