IT WAS once dubbed Liverpool’s unofficial “politburo”. But, since closing in 2004, the Vernon Arms, in Dale Street, has lain derelict. Now new landlord Jimmy Monaghan hopes he and his family can breathe new life into the much-missed watering hole.

In its mid-1980s heyday, it hosted infamous after-hours council meetings.

Militant Tendency stalwart Derek Hatton, the then-deputy council leader, thrashed out political masterplans in the Vernon Arms before going to meetings in the Municipal Buildings and Municipal Annexe over the road.

But, after council meetings moved elsewhere, so did the pub’s trade, leading to a slump in takings.

Mr Hatton told the Daily Post: “More decisions were taken there than were ever taken in the chamber.

“I have wonderful memories of the place. We met before meetings and after meetings. They used to have ‘stay behinds’, when they locked the doors and people would finish their drinks. You had more problem getting out than getting in.”

The after-hours antics almost lost the pub its licence. In 1987, councillors Tony Byrne and Frank Mills were caught drinking after hours.

More recently, it was used as a film set by the production team behind police drama Liverpool 1.

But owners Martin and Helen Ainscough called time in November, 2004, and put it up for sale.

It lay empty for more than four years, but Jimmy and wife Barbara hope to open in time for Grand National Ladies Day next Friday.

They have poured £10,000 into fixing up the building and spent two weeks renovating it.