IT’S seven months since Anthony Murtagh rescued an empty St Helens pub that some feared had witnessed its final days.

The Lamb had been shut up for months and placed on the market, leading to predictions it could go the way of other vacant pubs and be snapped up by a property developer for a residential conversion.

Anthony, an electrician by trade, had long harboured ambitions to get hold of a pub of his own and make it a success.

He identified The Lamb, on Corporation Street, as a suitable opportunity and embarked on fulfilling his dream.

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After striking a deal along with two business partners to buy the pub in 2022, he set out on breathing new life into the venue to make it a traditional British boozer.

The road was not without hurdles, with building work in the pub more extensive than it was first thought would be necessary.

And by the time the doors were opened in December, energy prices were rocketing and inflation soaring. Added to the mix of challenges is that the pub and bar scene in St Helens town centre has still not seen visitor numbers bounce back to what they were pre-Covid.

Speaking to the pub’s co-owner, Anthony, it’s clear the obstacles encountered were not part of the plan.

But a commendation from St Helens Camra, which recognised it as the borough’s most improved pub is evidence that they have got plenty right. The tiling, decor and central bar - which divides the lounge and the bar room - ensures there is the “traditional boozer” feel.

Ant is humble about what has been achieved through a lot of hard work and is pleased to see The Lamb has become a place where pensioners, families and couples enjoy a pint or a glass of wine.

He acknowledges that to some its edge-of-town centre position means it is a “starter pub” and that competition in the traditional pub scene in St Helens is strong, given the accolades won by the likes of The Turk’s Head and The Cricketer’s in recent years.

“They set a high benchmark,” he says, but also offer a bar to reach that can drive up standards at other venues. St Helens Camra has praised the development of the real ale scene in the town and regards it as a strength to attract more visitors here. The Lamb is very much part of that.

Ant admits he and his team have been learning about the real ale scene as the pub has got off the ground and there is a selection of around half a dozen to entice customers.

There are also discounts available for pensioners during the daytime (noon to 5pm) as it aims to build its reputation as a place for a pint and a chat.

There’s also a weekly quiz on a Tuesday, which, according to pictures posted on the pub’s social media pages, is drawing a healthy crowd.

A new outdoor terrace has also been created and there’s plenty more on the drinks menu to enjoy - just check out the Instagram page to see the range of cocktails and gins on offer.

The introduction of a food menu isn’t in place yet, but those steps forward could still follow, adds Ant, as work continues at St Helen’s’ Most Improved Pub.