A costs lawyer who was stabbed as he tried to stop the Southport knife attack is recovering after leg surgery.

Jonathan Hayes, managing director of Calculus Legal Costs, was working in the building next door to the incident in the Southport dance studio on Monday.

Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, died in the attack. Eight children and two adults, including Hayes, were also injured.

In a statement, Calculus Legal said it had spoken to Hayes yesterday from hospital. ‘He has come out of surgery and the good news is that the surgical team have said his leg will be OK,’ said the firm. ‘He is touched by the hundreds of you that have sent wishes for his speedy recovery, and sends his sincerest thanks. Our thoughts are with John, Helen and the family - we will keep you updated.

‘Our prayers go out to the family and friends of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar.’

Hayes, 63, has been hailed as a hero on social media for his bravery in stepping into such a dangerous situation. His wife Helen told the Telegraph he had tried to put himself between the attacker and the children after being alerted by screams.

She added: ‘I’ve been with him all afternoon at the hospital. He’s very upset that he wasn’t able to be more help. Physically he will be OK, mentally I don’t know.’

Hayes founded Calculus Legal in 2015 and is the sole director. It works exclusively for claimant firms in recovering costs for personal injury and clinical negligence.

The office was closed yesterday due to the ongoing police investigation.