Diluted Molasses should have done the trick.  I can't remember the correct Ratio of Molasses to water, but if you know any old Sailors, ask one of them.  I learned that trick, when living on Cape York, over 30 years ago.  Works really well on Cast Iron Stoves, and rusty Tools etc.

Cheers,

Sheba.   

'Nice one centurion'  

Possum3 wrote:

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For those wondering, How did I do it?":

I boiled about a litre of water, and 2 tablespoons of vinegar, a teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate, two cups of coke and half cup of lemon juice then stirred well .

Waited 3 minutes, put the pan in the solution for 40 minutes, then added a table spoon of bleach.

Then I brushed it with a firm toothbrush and put it back into the liquid for another half hour.

I took it out, rinsed it and it looked exactly the same, so I threw it away and went out and bought a new one...

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 Sounds a bit like those sure fire mould removal recipes.  I've tried them all. 

Yep! Elbow grease, patience or a nearby camping store are the best options.
The "Martha Stewarts" in the world have a heap of ideas. I sometimes soak mine in a warm bath of sodium percarbonate (also doubles as laundry powder!). Leave it for an hour and it makes it easier to clean - but!!.... still requires a bit of work.

Sodium percarbonate is kinder to the environment as it breaks down without the nasties.