Abstract: A clay or similar pipe has a coupling socket at one end formed by a shrink-fitted plastics sleeve. A sealing ring or band is interposed between the sleeve and the pipe surface. External compression is applied to the plastics sleeve over the sealing member during shrinkage of the sleeve. This compresses the sealing member and ensures reliable sealing without requiring the use of an additional bonding or sealing composition.Alternatively or additionally, a shrink-fitted plastics socket on a claywear or similar pipe end may have a region spaced from the pipe end, provided with a seal ring, and not subjected to shrink-fitting. The seal ring provides a secondary seal.