knot of company seekers." The inn was first recorded as "The Golden Cross" in 1780 and it has been a popular meeting place throughout its history. In 1796, as part of his inaugural election as M.P. for Shrewsbury, corrupt Tory candidate William Hill bought votes from the local freemen by plying them liberally with food and drink at the Golden Cross. 1800–present In the 19th century the landlord was Thomas Harris. He was particularly proud of his dinners provided daily "for those who wished to be served at his house or at their own houses." This may have been the town's first takeaway service. He also sold fresh poultry ready for dressing and prime sausages in season. In 1900 the inn was owned by Worthington & Co. and had six private and four public rooms. The landlady at this time was Maria Seddon, who later changed her name to Banning. She was obliged to sell the brewery's beer and stout, but she could supply her own spirits. In February 1962 Michael and Audrey O'Dwyer became tenants of the inn. Michael was a retired National Hunt jockey and the couple were popular hosts, remaining at the inn for many years. Within a few months of their tenancy a problem arose when a section of the public wanted an end to the "Men Only" bar, which had been a longstanding tradition. When local residents heard that their sanctuary was to lose its status, 70 male customers signed a petition of protest, which was sent to the brewery by the landlord. A compromise was reached with the "Men Only" bar functioning on weekdays, but with the ladies being allowed in at weekends, a situation that continued for a number of years. At that time, to the rear of the building, was what was traditionally known as the "Monks' Hole." In this area were two medieval stone benches and a stone table together with a spiral stone staircase which descended into a tunnel. This was one of three tunnels which emerged in three arches within the purlieu of old St. Chad's. One came from what is now Rackham's store, further down High Street and the other from the other direction. The Golden Cross tunnel emerged in the centre arch of the three and had reputedly allowed monks to cross from St. Chad's to drink in privacy, without being spotted by public. During the 1960s