Abstract: An elongated member (20) is fed by a feed conveyor (12) through a cutter (14) which is actuated to cut a first section (21). A takeaway conveyor (16) carries the first section (21) and a second section with a gap between the trailing end of the first section (21) and the leading end of the second section. Detection means (22) located along the takeaway conveyor (16) at a predetermined distance (L) from the cutter (14) actuates the cutter (14) in response to detection of the leading end of the second section providing a second section of a predetermined length (L). Other detection means (42,132) located at other positions along the conveyors (12,16) provide for stopping the apparatus (10) in the event of jamming or after the trailing end of the elongated member (20) reaches the feed conveyor (12).