LIVERPOOL Liberal Democrat Warren Bradley will face a challenge to his leadership after his outspoken attack on party head Nick Clegg.

It is understood the former Liverpool Council leader “outraged” figures in the national party after warning the Deputy Prime Minister its coalition with the Tories would consign it to “the annals of history” and it faced wipeout in next month’s polls.

City councillor Richard Kemp, leader of the Lib-Dems at the Local Government Association, said Cllr Bradley was “out of touch” and would be challenged after the local elections next month.

He added: “I think with 100% certainty there will be a leadership election after the local elections.

“I am just not sure who the candidates will be.”

Cllr Bradley last night said Cllr Kemp, who is up for re-election this year in Church ward, should be spending his time campaigning rather than “plotting” for a new group figurehead.

In 2008, Cllr Kemp unsuccessfully challenged the then-council leader and last year called on him to resign.

In stark contrast to Cllr Bradley’s view on the national leadership, Cllr Kemp has described himself as a “Cleggista” on his personal blog.