Britain’s biggest girl group, Little Mix celebrated a special anniversary today, despite the fact that they have been on hiatus since May this year.

The band is made up of Jade Thirlwall, Perrie Edwards (both of which are from South Shields) and Leigh-Anne Pinnock. Jesy Nelson was also part of the group from the beginning but departed to embark on a solo career in 2020.

The girls auditioned as solo artists on The X Factor in 2011, before being put together by judges, led by Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland.

The four-piece went on to win The X Factor, becoming the first ever group to win the competition, and the only ever girl group to win.

Today, the girl group celebrated eleven years since their iconic triumph which saw them sky-rocket to dizzying heights of fame and success.

Leigh-Anne posted an Instagram story of the trio embracing in a hug on stage at their last tour. She captioned the image: “11 years ago today we won the X factor. My sisters, I love and miss you.” Perrie reposted the story, adding her own caption: “My sisters forever & ever, I love you both so much.”

Jade also reposted the story adding: “11 years ago fate stepped in and said it’s about to get wiiiiiild lol and I am eternally grateful. Family.” Jesy did not mention the anniversary on her social media accounts.

Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Jade Thirlwall and Perrie Edwards arriving at the studios of Global Radio in London (Photo: PA)

In their 11-year career, Little Mix achieved five UK number one singles, with Cannonball, Wings, Black Magic, Shout Out To My Ex and Sweet Melody. They also achieved a one number one album with Glory Days, however all of their albums reached the top ten. They won three BRIT awards, for British Single of the Year for Shout Out To My Ex in 2017, British Video of the Year for Woman Like Me in 2019 and Best Group in 2020.

Little Mix celebrate special anniversary despite hiatus