Abstract: The suture retainer according to one aspect of the invention has a retainer body and a plurality of suture attachment mechanisms spaced circumferentially about the retainer body, each of the suture attachment mechanisms (such as a pair of teeth) being adapted to hold a suture strand at a discrete attachment point. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of securing a suture in a suture retainer, including the following steps: providing a suture retainer having a retainer body and a plurality of suture attachment mechanisms spaced circumferentially about the retainer body; and attaching a suture strand to the retainer body at each of the suture attachment mechanisms.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a press and mould apparatus for moulding cementitious articles comprising a precast mould and a press head having a pressing surface and being moveable between precast mould engaging and disengaging positions, wherein the pressing surface comprises a coating of deformable and resilient material such as urethane. Also disclosed is a process for moulding building blocks. This process comprising filling a precast mould with material, such as concrete, this is to be pressed; and pressing the material with a pressing surface comprising a deformable and resilient coating so as to solidify the material into a green shape ready for cutting.